Position: Marina del Cantone
The charming church is situated right on the shores of the pebble beach, which is crowded with bathers during the summer. The church of Sant’Antonio is part of a building complex that overlooks the old “cart track” that leads to Recommone. It was founded in 1646 by popular vote.
Between the late XVIII century and the early XIX century, the priest Nicola de Martino promoted an expensive restoration of the church. The rich owner Luca Maggio personally financed the realization of the wonderful painted floor in “riggiole”, work of the school of Chiajese, still beautifully preserved today.
The floor is decorated with ornaments and drawings that recall the ancient tuna fishery of Nerano. Even today, this floor is beautifully preserved. At the center stands the coat of arms of the Maggio family, which is also patron saint of the church, framed by the typical late rococo modules.
The high altar, dating back to the XVII century and made of polychrome marble, was described by Riccardo Filangieri as an example of perfect baroque design. Originally surmounted by a painting depicting Sant’Antonio, today it is adorned with a modest canvas depicting the Virgin.
In 1904, the church of Sant’Antonio underwent a complete renewal, thanks to the generous contribution of the faithful of Nerano. Even the ancient statue of Sant’Antonio, still venerated to the left of the altar, was the subject of a restoration. The careful restoration has preserved its beauty and its religious importance.
Moreover every year, on June 13, the people of Nerano gather to celebrate Saint Anthony with a solemn procession by sea. Strengthening in this way the bond of faith between the saint and his devotees. This tradition not only celebrates the spirituality of the community, but also protects the activities related to the sea, which still today constitute a vital part of the local economy, involving hundreds of inhabitants of Massa Lubrense
