Chiesa di Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Church of St. Mary above Minerva), Assisi

Dating back to the time of Emperor Augustus (27 BC–14 AD), this structure was initially dedicated to the Roman goddess of wisdom. Over time, it saw various transformations, serving as a monastery and later as a prison before being repurposed as a church in the 16th century. While its perfect classical facade might inspire certain expectations, the interior tells a different story: In the 17th century, it was subjected to a thorough Baroque makeover, featuring ornate cornices and a lavish golden altar. At the center of the altar's frontispiece is a painting by Giorgetti depicting God the Creator surrounded by angels embracing creation. Behind the altar, a Latin inscription reads, "This glorious temple, once dedicated to Minerva, the goddess of false wisdom, is now consecrated to the mother of true wisdom".

Renowned for its six remarkably preserved Corinthian columns, the former Temple of Minerva captured the fascination of Goethe, who declared it as the "first complete classical monument" he had ever seen. To quote his own words, "I cannot describe the sensations which this work aroused in me, but I know they are going to bear fruit forever." In contrast, Goethe famously dismissed the town's grand Basilica, referring to it as a "Babylonian pile".

Throughout history, the temple endured various challenges, particularly during the early Middle Ages when it fell into disrepair, earning the moniker "casolino" or "humble dwelling" in records. In the 13th century, under municipal ownership, the lower level was used as a prison while the upper floor functioned as a council chamber.