San Bernardino from Siena

On the Lauretana square of Toffia is the convent complex of St. Bernardine of Siena, located in the ancient “castrum Tophiae” in the upper part of the village (Montecavallo and Castel di dentro). This complex includes a church and service rooms used by the confraternity “Company of St. Lawrence the Martyr,” to which all the heads of families in the village belonged. The company managed cows grazing on Monte Sportella (now Monte degli Elci), opposite the square, thus practicing mutual support activities.

The church, dedicated to St. Bernardine of Siena, reflects the Franciscan influence in the village, similar to the Franciscan complex of St. Alexander and the oratory of SS. Stigmata at Castel di dentro. The Compagnia del Gonfalone operated here, with adherents wearing white habit during an annual event. St. Bernadine is supposed to have stayed in the convent of St. Alexander in 1430, helping to create the present church, which features a simple Franciscan design.

The church contains frescoes depicting the annunciation to the shepherds and the nativity with Madonna and child, as well as other figures probably representing St. Bernardine and St. Sebastian. Outside the church, on the square, are Roman artifacts, including a pillar and column drum.

Today, the church of St. Bernardino is deconsecrated and has become a theater and a home for the philharmonic and municipal offices. Portions of the 15th-century frescoes remain visible in the theater hall, which is managed by the Association 33 Creative Workshop. The history of this place reflects the rich Franciscan tradition and community life in Toffia over the centuries.