In response to the growing spiritual needs of the people of Palombaio, construction of the village church began in 1855, marking the start of a long-awaited place of worship for the community.

The building was completed in 1859, and on May 8 of the same year—just five years after the proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception—the church was blessed and consecrated to the Virgin Mary, as recorded in the inscription carved into the architrave above the main entrance.

Built in the Doric style, the church is harmoniously proportioned: 13 meters high, 17 meters long, and 8 meters wide. It features a single nave, a central dome, and three altars made of Bitonto’s local limestone.

Inside, the church houses a polished stone baptismal font and an organ accompanied by a harmonium.

The original high altar, once dedicated to the Immaculate Virgin and placed in a wooden niche, was replaced in the 1960s.

Around the same time, the side altars were removed, and after the Second Vatican Council, the main altar was repositioned closer to the rear wall to comply with new liturgical norms.

One of the most remarkable works in the church is the statue of the Virgin, crafted by the Neapolitan sculptor Enrico Pedace.

Carved in cherry wood, the statue is notable for its neoclassical serenity, the robe's graceful flow, and the face's expressiveness. The realistic features reflect the tradition of Neapolitan nativity scenes, while the veiled head symbolizes holiness. The wind-blown red mantle represents the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the Virgin’s clasped hands suggest reverence and surrender.

In 2014, a careful restoration revealed the original colors, bringing out the vibrant contrast between the bright tones of the robe and the pale cloud at her feet—an allusion to the biblical figure of the “woman clothed with the sun.”

This church remains a place of deep popular devotion. One local story tells of a child who ran out of his house near the church and was hit by a car—but miraculously emerged unharmed. The boy’s mother, overwhelmed with gratitude, entered the church and offered the Virgin her son’s necklace in thanks. Since that day, many believe the Madonna has watched over this dangerous intersection—and according to tradition, not a single accident has happened there.