Church of Carmine, Sorrento

The Church of Carmine, officially known as Sanctuary of the Madonna del Carmine (Santuario della Madonna del Carmine), is a captivating historical building located in the heart of Sorrento. Built in the Baroque style in 1572, it stands prominently at the eastern corner of Piazza Tasso, where it intersects with Corso Italia, serving as a significant cultural and architectural landmark in the region.

This church has a unique exterior, featuring a curious appearance with a yellow façade partially obscured by an adjoining structure, which now functions as a bar with the same name. This juxtaposition adds an interesting aspect to the church's presence in the lively square of Sorrento.

The Church of Carmine was constructed on the site of an ancient church dedicated to the sacred martyrs of Sorrento in the late 15th century. Only two remnants of the original structure persist: two piperno porticoes with square fornices, ovoid decorations, and notches. Over time, the church has suffered damage and undergone significant reconstructions, notably in the 17th century, in line with architectural styles of the time.

Inside the sanctuary, visitors will find a remarkable single nave flanked by side altars. The apse is adorned with exquisite paintings depicting various episodes from the life of the Virgin Mary, such as "Saint Anne with the Virgin Child," "The Assumption of Mary," and "The Annunciation." The main altar houses a replica of the Brown Madonna, paying homage to the original located in the Carmelite church in Naples.

The church's art collection includes numerous pieces from the Neapolitan school, displayed along the right wall. These artworks feature representations of the Virgin and Child, the Virgin Wearing the Veil with Saint Mary Magdalene, Saint Andrew, and Saint Teresa of Avila, among others, along with a notable painting in the Chapel of the Holy Martyrs.

At the far end of the sanctuary stands an ancient depiction of Saint Mary, honoring the dark-skinned Virgin revered in the church of the same name in Naples. This artwork, alongside others from the 16th and 17th centuries, enriches the Church of Carmine's artistic legacy, attracting religious devotees and art enthusiasts to Sorrento's historic and cultural scene.