santuario, diocesano, San Michele Arcangelo

The Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo in Senerchia is the oldest place of worship in the Valle del Sele dedicated to the Prince of the Heavenly Host. Built in the thirteenth century at the behest of the Lombards, it stands close to the medieval castle and the ancient village clinging to a rocky spur, commanding views over the town and the entire valley. The Lombards, with their particular devotion to the warrior archangel, saw in his image of helm and sword a reflection of themselves. This was a time of frequent Saracen raids, as the raiders pushed up the valley towards the Christian city of Conza della Campania. The castle of Senerchia, along with those at Quaglietta and Colliano, formed a defensive barrier. The ancient simulacrum of the Archangel preserved within the church testifies to the enduring devotion of the community, which has always cared for and repaired its temple. Since 2018, the sanctuary has been part of the association ‘I Sacri luoghi dell’Arcangelo Michele’, joining the network of Michaelic pathways.

Description via source. Coordinates and heritage data from the Atika atlas.