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Bonaventura Berlinghieri
In Pescia, the Church of Saint Francis preserves an extraordinary work of art: a painting on wood depicting Saint Francis and the stories of his life. This masterpiece was painted in 1235 by Bonaventura Berlinghieri from Lucca. It is considered by historiographers as the first realistic painting of Saint Francis. The restoration of this painting in 1982 brought back its original ancient splendor. The central part of the painting depicts Saint Francis, flanked by two angels. The sides of the panel depict six scenes: three refer to episodes of Saint Francis’ life and three to meaningful miracles that occurred after the Saint’s death.
Tradition tells us that nobleman Venanzio Orlandi, on the occasion of his visit to Pescia, had a little oratory built to pay tribute to Saint Francis. From this first building later developed the present monastery and Church. Over the course of centuries, the church was further embellished with many other works of art, thus becoming a crucial benchmark not only for its religious importance, but for its artistic and historic treasures.
Information
Tourist Office - Pescia |
Former Flower Market
via F.lli Rosselli,2
Ph. +39 0572 490919
Fax +39 0572 499933 |
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