Catholic Heritage

The Soul of the Family: Chiesa di Santa Maria di Costantinopoli

Nestled in the quaint district of delle Fratie in Calvi, between rolling hills and sprawling strawberry fields, stands a humble edifice – the LaFrazia family church. With an origin story that winds its way back to the early 18th century, the church serves not just as a religious gathering place but as a cornerstone of our heritage and our Catholic faith.

Historical Foundation

Built around 1700 by the Monks of Montevergine, the church was initially part of a broader plan to commemorate the late Catherine of Valois, Empress of Constantinople, through the establishment of chapels in the surrounding territories. The LaFrazia family later became custodians of the church, imprinting their legacy into its very walls. A marble engraving inside the church points to a deeper historical tie, documenting the resting place of a Reverendo LaFrazia in the crypt beneath the floor.

The LaFrazia Family Legacy

But what is it that ties this structure so intricately to our lineage? It begins with its location. The church resides in an area called delle Fratie, a name that finds its roots in our family name. In the small square adjacent to the church, you’ll find the family residence, marked by an ancient marble portal inscribed with the date 1756. A shield-like marble relief above the church’s lintel continues to display the image of the Madonna with Child, though worn with time.

A Place of Community

Behind the church, a well that has quenched the thirst of surrounding families for centuries signifies the central role our ancestors played in the community. The well, though no longer in use, is a mute but powerful testament to the unity and care that have always been hallmarks of the LaFrazia. Similarly, the church has long been a spiritual wellspring, a place to draw sustenance for the soul. Here, in this sacred space, the Eucharist has been celebrated countless times, allowing many to partake in the Body and Blood of Christ, nourishing spirits and strengthening bonds.

Lost but Not Forgotten

Adding a layer of mystery to the church’s long history is the disappearance of an invaluable painting depicting the Madonna of Constantinople. Though stolen years ago and never recovered, the void left by its absence only strengthens our resolve to preserve the other traditions and artifacts that have stood the test of time.

Faith and Family Intertwined

Beyond the bricks and mortar, the church is also a spiritual sanctuary that has hosted generations of LaFrazia family events—from christenings and marriages to funerals and family gatherings. Our faith, represented by the very existence of this church, is an enduring force that binds us.

Today, as newer generations of LaFrazias spread across Italy and the United States, the church in Calvi remains a poignant reminder of our enduring values, faith, and strong sense of community. It symbolizes not only where we’ve come from but also what we continue to stand for—a family legacy anchored in love, faith in Christ, and a rich tapestry of Italian Catholic tradition.