Santa Maria in valle Porclaneta (Magliano de' Marsi)
Built on a hillock that faces the Velino, this church, originating in 1080, represents a successful interpretation of Arab, Byzantine, Campanian and Umbrian motifs. First a monastery annex, the church was rebuilt over an existing construction in about the 12th century. Externally the weathered main façade has a plain aspect and is preceded by a simple, single arch portico.
On the other hand the apse is extremely elegant, with its polyhedric finish, added in 1200s. The interior is divided in three by ten pillars that support six arches. At the height of the third pillar, on a tall stone socle decorated with bas-reliefs, there is the 13th century iconostasis, made up of four mullions that support a marquetry composition of the 1200s.
The ambo and the tabernacle, the former dated 1150 and the later attributed to the same period because of the evident thematic and stylistic similarities, are the work of Roberto and Nicodemo, famous carvers of stucco, which has been used here to create a precious architectural and decorative masterpiece.
On the other hand the apse is extremely elegant, with its polyhedric finish, added in 1200s. The interior is divided in three by ten pillars that support six arches. At the height of the third pillar, on a tall stone socle decorated with bas-reliefs, there is the 13th century iconostasis, made up of four mullions that support a marquetry composition of the 1200s.