Church of San Marcello (Anversa degli Abruzzi)

Walking along Via Duca degli Abruzzi, the gaze is captured by the Church of San Marcello, dedicated to Pope Marcellus I, the patron saint of Anversa degli Abruzzi. Dating back to the 11th century, it was expanded during the fiefdom of Count Nicolò da Procida, whose coat of arms is still visible on the portal. Due to its historical and artistic value, it was declared a national monument in 1902. Observing the facade, one notices the Romanesque style, enriched by a finely decorated late Gothic portal. Pausing at the pointed arch lunette, one can admire a Burgundian-influenced trilobe, dating back to 1472, depicting the Madonna with Child between Saint Marcellus and Saint Vincent the martyr. Gazing at the chestnut wood doors, one can appreciate the craftsmanship of Nicola da Sulmona, who created them in 1468 with extraordinary inlay work. Upon entering, one is enveloped by the ancient atmosphere of the church, enhanced by traces of frescoes that once adorned its walls. Looking up at the back wall, it is possible to notice the extensive paintings that have emerged from recent restorations. On the right side, just after the entrance, two frescoes depicting Saint Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anthony can be distinguished, while other pictorial fragments are visible along the bell tower staircase. Reading between the signs left by time, one perceives the charm of a bygone era, which still today tells stories of faith and art. This church, with its sculpted and painted details, invites a journey into the past, where every architectural and artistic element is an open window onto the history of Anversa degli Abruzzi.