“One does not cross-examine a saint.”
― Victor Hugo, Les Misérables
Adjacent to the ViaPieta Corso Italia is the Roman Catholic Cathderal dedicated to Saint Filippo and Saint Giacomo. Said to have been built upon the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the father of all the Gods, Jupiter, around the 11th century and was rebuilt in the 15th century in Roman style. This is a must see for those visiting Sorrento.
“You go on ahead and go in,” my friend said. “I’m not religious.”
Don’t make that mistake. I have watched, while finishing off a gelato before entering, many people stand outside and admire the beautiful white stone exterior facade, try to decipher the tablets carved in stone, take a few selfies and walk on.
The public is welcome to step through the door. Where there is a tranquility and yet a majesty, art that will have you turning away from your guidebook and smartphones, and gazing in reverence no matter what God you may or may not recognize. Looking up you will find a ceiling of painted cloth by Francesco Francareccio. Throughout this beautiful space are paintings by Nicola Malinconia, Giacomo dei Po and others.
While the facade of the church is fairly new (1924), it is the interior peace and beauty that makes it one of my favorite stops when in Sorrento. With each visit, the Cathedral reveals a deeper level intricate details in the art.
I’ll share a few teasers until you walk through the door for yourself:
And if you do decide you are waiting outside, know your wait will be a minimum of an hour or so. Time for gelato.
Have a most excellent weekend one and all!
Today’s Music: Natilie Dessay- Italian Opera Arias
Beautiful and amazing colors !
… oh yes, Natalie Dessay. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow what amazing photos!! thanks for sharing these with us!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful photos! Thanks for a wonderful tour of the cathedral.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure!
LikeLike
Very beautiful pictures.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful building.. Thank you for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Church was where the poor folk, not only worshipped, but enjoyed beauty that they had not at home. Lovely to see such art. x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Such a respite from the harshness of poverty. Certainly a place to gather strength, find solace, peace, rest, and healing of the body, mind and spirit.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
LikeLike
The colours are so magnificent, golden warmth and inviting. Someday I shall visit Italy. So look forward to touring Europe…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, you must go.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I definitely would not be someone who passes up the chance to enter such a sanctuary. I find the greatest peace in all such edifices. Thank you for this most beautiful artful tour. 🙂 I’d get my gelato afterward. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Love all these posts. I feel like we have caught up. I even had banana bread! THANK YOU!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I really enjoyed this photo essay. I’ve never gotten to travel but Italy would be my first choice. I am of Roman and Sicilian descent.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh, it will absolutely change the way you walk the planet.
LikeLike
You are most welcome 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
wowwwwwww
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLike
Absolutely stunning photos! Did you have the gelato?
LikeLiked by 1 person
An excellent lemon gelato is on my short list of must haves.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awesome! If we ever make it out the way, we will keep it in mind. How awesome an experience.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lovely photos. 🙂
I’ve always wanted to go to Italy, in particular to see their beautiful cathedrals.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is waiting for you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I loved the artwork you included, JoHanna. Churches, parishes and cathedrals are fascinating and beautiful in many ways. Sitting and allowing serenity and to “sense” angels, God or a “Presence” is fulfilling.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree. These spaces hold a restorative power for me.
LikeLike
I just loved this video.
The pictures are just to be admired.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. So happy you enjoyed it.
LikeLike