The church, built in 1629 on the remains of a pre-existing religious building, stands on a meadow 1 km from the village, where a church dedicated to Santa Maria stood already in the 13th century. Originally, the church had an architectural layout that was different from the current one, with a single nave and surrounded on three sides by a portico that served to house the tombs of Chianni’s most illustrious families.
During the 17th century, the building received the title of Santa Maria del Carmine, while in 1929, the church underwent extensive renovations, which led to the demolition of the outer portico and the Renaissance-style pietra serena façade. The Congregation of Carmel had its seat here, as evidenced by the many votive offerings in thanksgiving for miracles received.
At present, the church is only open to the public on special religious occasions, including the Sunday after 16 July, when the Madonna del Carmine is commemorated, 15 August and 8 September. Suggestive concerts are held in this country church by the Chorale of S. Donato di Chianni.