Location: Torca
The Church of San Tommaso Apostolo, built in the 14th century, is an important example of religious architecture in the territory of Massa Lubrense.
Characterized by a single nave, the church is equipped with a frescoed vault, a dome and an apse that gives great elegance to the interior.
The High Altar, dating back to the 18th century and made of polychrome marble, is particularly fascinating. The 1604 canvas that surmounts it represents Jesus in the Cenacle, surrounded by the Apostles, with Saint Thomas who, incredulous, touches the wounds of the Lord.
In the “Cornu Evangeli,” which marks the entrance to the sacristy, there are altars dedicated to the Madonna delle Grazie and to San Stefano, the latter of 8th century origin. The painting on this altar depicts the scene of the martyrdom of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr.
On the side of the epistle, there are three consecrated altars. The first is dedicated to the Virgin of Carmel. It housed in the past a fresco depicting the Madonna of the Carmines between Saints Francis of Paola, Onofrio and Antonio di Padova. This painting was replaced in 1685 with a representation of the Madonna. The other altar, dedicated to San Leonardo, was erected in 1583 by the family of Pastena and later ceded to the Confraternity of SS. Rosario by concession of Mons. Centino Maurizio, bishop of Massa, in 1626. Finally, a sacred altar dedicated to the Purification, then dedicated to the Holy Crucifix in 1853, was replaced by a new altar in polychrome marbles, designed by Carlo Schiano under the pontificate of Mons. De Rossi. A painting by Maria Maddalena, unfortunately in poor condition, is also present on this last altar.
The oratory of Maria SS. del Rosario and Saint Filippo Neri
Adjacent to the church is the oratory of Maria SS. del Rosario and San Filippo Neri, an important place of worship for the community. Founded in 1696 by the Rev. Tommaso Merolla, the oratory is under the patronage of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary. It hosts the Confraternity of St. Philip. Inside, stands an altar in polychrome marble dating from the eighteenth century, adorned with hard stone and lapis lazuli, which makes it a work of great value.
This church and its oratory are not only places of worship, but also symbols of a cultural and religious tradition that continues to live in the community of Torca. Their architecture and the artistic treasures they hold tell stories of faith, art and history, making them a must-see for those visiting the region.
