ATG trip: Padula & Nothern Calabria (Discovering Europe)

Background: The rock-church San Michele alle Grotelle, high above the hill town of Padula 100 miles south-east of Naples, was once a shrine dedicated to the pagan god Attis and has been an important destination for pilgrims since the introduction of Christianity by Constantine the Great. The church contains two exquisite fresco cycles (restored by UNESCO) representing the life of St James of Compostella.

Problem: Most visitors to the area are unaware of this treasure. In winter the grotto floods; in summer, green lichen spreads across the friable rock surface.

Project: Plan how best to manage the humidity exacerbated by an underground spring; work with local authorities to implement a conservation programme; restore access to the hermitage from Padula; install an appropriate lighting system.

Sustainability: The opportunity to visit Padula’s ‘world-class’ rock church, once restored, as well as its other ancient and historic monuments, will retain travellers for longer in the area, thus creating local wealth.

Project in progress