Medieval frescos at Orosei - in Sardinia

There are still a couple more things I want to share from my holiday in Sardinia. In fact, I'm trying to complete my Sardinia postings before I head to the Greek island of Zakynthos in a couple of weeks and make you all jealous with more photos of sparkling blue water and (lets hope) sun-kissed beaches.

In medieval times the town of Orosei was a prosporous and thriving port, but over the years the river silted up and the town is now marooned inland from the sea.



We visited the small medieval church of Sant'Antonio which is a hotch potch of 15th century exterior and restored modern interior. Is sits within a large courtyard lined by small dwellings which were once the place for pilgrims and travellers to rest, and a tower in the centre.


Despite the updating of the interior for everyday use, they've been careful to leave the colourful medieval frescos inside the church.



The colours are a little faded but you can imagine them in their full technicolour splendour, covering all the walls and making this little church rather grand.



What I vaguely noticed at the time and now can't help wondering about is the amount of whipping and flagellation that seems to be going on in some of the pictures. The Middle Ages was the time when there was plenty to be fearful of - if the Turkish raiders from the sea didn't get you, you'd better lead a God-fearing life or your punishment would come at the day of judgement. Beside the altar they've also left a view of the original painted tile floor, which was at least a couple of feet below the current level.



If you like old churches like me, this one would be worth making a detour for and afterwards you can relax in the shady Piazza Sant'Antonio outside the gate.

You can see my other photos from Orosei on my Flickr site here.

And read the rest of my Sardinia posts here.

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