Four figures carved from a single marble block

In the heart of the Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral lies a testament to the masterful craftsmanship of artisans long gone—a marvel of marble that defies the bounds of imagination. Carved from a single block of stone, this extraordinary creation stands as a timeless tribute to the ingenuity and skill of its creators, showcasing four distinct figures that embody the spirit of artistic innovation and devotion.

Crafted between the years 1570 and 1579, during a period of artistic flourishing in Italy, these four figures have become the centerpiece of the cathedral’s revered halls, drawing pilgrims and art aficionados from far and wide to marvel at their exquisite beauty and unparalleled craftsmanship.

At first glance, the figures appear to be carved from separate blocks of marble, each one bearing the unmistakable hallmarks of a master sculptor’s hand. Yet upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that they are in fact part of a single, seamless whole—a testament to the skill and precision of the artisans who brought them into being.

The first figure, a serene depiction of Saint Mary Assunta herself, stands with arms outstretched in a gesture of divine grace and benevolence. Her visage is one of serene beauty, her features delicately chiseled with an almost ethereal quality that seems to transcend the limitations of stone.

Beside her stands Saint Peter, the rock upon which the church was built, his stoic expression and steadfast gaze symbolizing the unwavering faith of the faithful. His robes flow with a sense of movement and dynamism, as if caught in a moment of divine revelation.

Opposite Saint Peter stands Saint Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, his figure exuding a sense of intellectual vigor and spiritual fervor. With a quill in hand and a scroll at his feet, he embodies the scholarly pursuit of truth and wisdom that has guided generations of believers.

Completing the quartet is Saint John the Evangelist, the beloved disciple, his figure bathed in a soft, ethereal light that seems to emanate from within. With pen poised and eyes turned heavenward, he embodies the spirit of divine inspiration and revelation.

Together, these four figures form a harmonious ensemble—a symphony of faith and devotion that transcends the boundaries of time and space. Carved with painstaking detail and meticulous care, they serve as a testament to the enduring power of art to uplift and inspire the human spirit.

As visitors wander through the hallowed halls of the Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral, they cannot help but be drawn to these magnificent figures, each one a masterpiece in its own right. And as they gaze upon the marvel of marble before them, they are reminded of the enduring legacy of those who came before—a legacy of faith, devotion, and artistic brilliance that continues to resonate with us today.