The Sanctuary of St. Francis of Paola, located in Corigliano Calabro, represents an important center of worship and history for the local community. Founded in 1475 by the saint himself, who became the patron saint of the town, the convent and church bear witness to the deep connection between the saint and the Calabrian territory. The structure, of considerable architectural value, is characterized by Gothic and Baroque elements, which blend harmoniously.
Several valuable works of art can be admired inside the sanctuary. Prominent among them is the large canvas entitled “The Name of Jesus,” created by Felice Vitale da Maratea at the end of the 16th century, which captures the attention of visitors for its expressiveness and strong visual impact. Other significant works include Pietro Negroni’s depiction of the Holy Trinity and the painting with the Franciscan Blesseds, Gaspare del Bono and Nicola Saggio, by Pietro Costantini.
Recently, two frescoes depicting Our Lady of the Pomegranate were discovered, along with a polyptych dating from the 15th-16th centuries, further enriching the sanctuary’s artistic heritage. These elements not only testify to the people’s devotion to St. Francis of Paola, but also offer insight into the cultural and religious history of the region.
The Sanctuary of St. Francis of Paola is thus a place of pilgrimage and reflection, where history and spirituality are intertwined in a unique atmosphere.