Church of the Crucifix: A Sanctuary of Devotion, History, and Art in the Heart of Umbria

Nestled in the heart of Umbria, the Church of the Crucifix in Costano (Bastia Umbra) stands as a testament to centuries of faith, art, and local history. This sanctuary, dear to the hearts of the Costanesi, houses precious relics and significant works of art, inviting visitors to an experience of deep spirituality and cultural discovery.

Architecture and Structure: A Journey Through Time

The 18th-century facade, facing the main square of the village, immediately captures attention with its three-part structure, characterized by pilasters, a central portal, and a brick spire. Crowning the ensemble, a 19th-century bell tower, rebuilt after the 1832 earthquake, adds a touch of elegance and history.
The interior of the church consists of a single rectangular hall, divided into two distinct sections. The first, a small atrium with a barrel vault, serves as the bell tower, from where the bells still ring today. The second, larger section houses the oratory proper. Two entrances lead inside: one opens directly onto the square, while the other faces the inner part of the old castle, revealing the church’s integration into the historical fabric of the village.

The Stone of San Rufino: A Martyrdom Carved in Stone

The beating heart of the sanctuary is the large rectangular stone that serves as the altar table. Tradition holds that this stone was tied to the neck of San Rufino, Bishop of Assisi, during his martyrdom. Brought here from the vanished church of San Rufino in Costano, the first burial place of the saint, the stone represents a tangible link to the history and sacrifice of the patron saint of Assisi.

The Crucifix Fresco: An Artistic and Spiritual Treasure

On the back wall of the oratory, behind the altar, a precious 15th-century fresco depicting the Crucifixion can be admired. Attributed to the school of Nicolò di Liberatore of Foligno, known as l’Alunno, the work presents Christ crucified, surrounded by angels collecting blood from his wounds. On the sides, the figures of San Rocco, San Bernardino da Siena, and Sant’Antonio Abate (or, according to some, San Benedetto) enrich the scene with meaning and devotion.

Popular Devotion and Spiritual Search

The Church of the Crucifix has always been a place of worship frequented by the Costanesi. The presence of the stone linked to the martyrdom of San Rufino and the fresco of the Crucifixion make it a reference point for prayer and reflection. The story of San Rufino, a bishop martyred for his faith, invites the faithful to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice and Christian witness. San Rocco, invoked as a protector against the plague, reminds us of the importance of caring for others and solidarity. San Bernardino da Siena, a tireless preacher, exhorts us to live a life marked by faith and charity. Sant’Antonio Abate, father of monasticism, invites us to inner search and contemplation.

Hints for an Adventurous Search: Inside the sanctuary, look for traces of ancient ex-votos, unfortunately partly stolen in 1976. Inquire about the stories related to these votive objects, testimonies of received graces and popular faith. Try to reconstruct, through documents and testimonies, the history of the church of San Rufino in Costano, from which the relic stone comes. Deepen your knowledge of the artists who contributed to the creation of the Crucifixion fresco, particularly Nicolò di Liberatore known as l’Alunno and his school. Explore the figures of the saints depicted in the fresco, San Rocco, San Bernardino da Siena, and Sant’Antonio Abate (or San Benedetto), to understand their role in the spirituality and history of the Church.

A Rediscovered Sanctuary: Restoration and Enhancement

In 1990, the sanctuary underwent a significant restoration that brought the frescoes to light and enriched the church with new works of art. Thanks to these interventions, the Church of the Crucifix is not only a place of worship but also a small museum that tells the story and the spiritual and artistic life of the village.
The spiritual care of the sanctuary is entrusted to the parish priest of Bastia Umbra, assisted by a Franciscan friar, ensuring the continuity of religious tradition and the welcome of the faithful.

06083 Bastia Umbra, Province of Perugia, Italy