Oratorio della S.S. Annunziata

The Oratory named "Annunziata", rectangular with a single nave, was built in the 15th century, just outside the town walls of Ovada. Over the years, the building has undergone numerous renovations and modifications. The excellent stucco decorations inside the church date back to the 18th century, whilst the 19th century frescoes on the walls and ceiling were executed by Ignazio Tosi. The interior is enriched with paintings that include a triptych depicting The Annunciation, attributed to Agostino Bombelli, the Climb to Calvary and Praying in the Garden by Luca Cambiaso and, behind the main altar, the wooden sculpture of the Annunziata and a processional casket by Maragliano. The owners of the Oratory, the Brotherhood of the Annunziata, had the young Paolo Daneo as one of their order in the 17th century. He was the founder of the Congregation of the Fathers of Passion and canonised as St. Paul of the Cross. The Oratory preserves the 15th century Polyptych of the Annunciation by Francesco di Brea