Dall’antica chiesa di San Nicola alla nuova parrocchiale di Seclì

The Diocese of Nardò–Gallipoli has detailed the historical transition of the Seclì parish from the ancient church of San Nicola to its current contemporary building located on the Pezza hill.

Historical records from a pastoral visit conducted by Mons. Ludovico De Pennis on May 23, 1452, identify the original San Nicola church as the primary place of worship for the village. During that period, don Giorgio led the local clergy, assisted by priests don Giorgio Gioi, don Giorgio Gigante, and don Giorgio Greco. The 1452 report noted that the church held various sacred items, including a book, a golden cross, and a bell located in the bell tower of the church of San Giovanni. The church also owned land in the Padulaci, Piperi, and Vinci areas.

The historical religious landscape of the area included two other sites near the locality of Santa Maria. One was dedicated to the Santissimo Crocifisso di Santa Sofia, which is remembered today through a small chapel containing an ancient fresco of the Cristo della Pietà. The other was dedicated to the Madonna di Costantinopoli, marked by a 16th-century iron cross on a floral base. The original San Nicola church underwent significant changes during the 17th century.