The region
of Basilicata is one of the least explored places in Italy, and that is exactly
why it is full of undiscovered treasures and natural beauty. From the rich soil
of Rionero in Vulture, which produces renowned olive oil and Aglianico red wine
to the ruins of the 11th century Castle of Melfi to the stunning beauty of the
seaside coast of Maratea, Basilicata is home to countless sources of beauty.
Nicola Tricarico (right) with church pastor |
Writer and
scholar, Nicola Tricarico, is from the neighboring region of Puglia. Born and
raised in the beautiful seaside town of Manfredonia, Tricarico is an aficionado
of Italian art and culture. In the early 1970's when he was working on his
college thesis about art history, he made a huge discovery. While doing
research at an ancient church in Basilicata, La chiesa di San Donato in the
town of Ripacandida, in the provence of Potenza, he was literally touching and
poking about the walls when he realized something was underneath the primer.
Further inspection led to the discovery of paintings which could date back to
the 13th century, with the painter most likely having a connection to St.
Francis of Assisi. The images which adorn the walls of the church are colorful,
detailed scenes inspired by the Old and New Testament. There is not much
information documented on the church, but it's almost certain that it was
founded by the Benedictine Friars in 1152.
Tricarico's
discovery led to a documentary film produced by RAI television, which explored
the history of the church and its hidden paintings. The sanctuary in which the
paintings are located was recognized by UNESCO in 2010 as a monument to peace
and profound spiritual values. Tricarico, now a teacher of nearly 40 years in
Manfredonia, continues to visit and study the church. He recently published a
beautifully illustrated book which recounts the history of the church and these
mystery paintings. He believes there are more paintings within the church walls
just waiting to be discovered.
For more
information about the church of San Donato, please visit the church's website at www.sandonatoripacandida.net.
- Jeannine Guilyard
- Jeannine Guilyard
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