Chiesa di San Giorgio (Church of Saint George), Salerno

The Church of San Giorgio in Salerno is widely acclaimed as the epitome of baroque splendor within the city. Although its unassuming facade on Cathedral Street may not betray the grandeur within, once entered, it unfolds as the most exquisite baroque sanctuary in Salerno, adorned with captivating frescoes by the renowned artist Solimena.

The origins of the Church of San Giorgio trace back to the 8th century, constructed upon the foundations of an even older church dedicated to the eastern saint. The present-day church is a result of extensive renovations undertaken in the latter part of the 17th century, breathing new life into the ancient Monastery of San Giorgio. Remarkably, this monastery, now housing the barracks of the Carabinieri and the financial police, underwent restoration in the aftermath of the earthquake in 1980.

During this restoration, beneath the contemporary floor, the remains of a frescoed apse structure dating back to pre-10th century times emerged. To showcase this historical treasure, an ingenious electric device was installed to elevate the floor, allowing visitors to witness the captivating frescoes. The church's interior unfolds as a single nave, featuring a groined barrel vault, flanked by side chapels. A rectangular transept, crowned with a dome, adds to the architectural elegance, concluding with a square space situated behind the altar.