Thursday, March 20, 2014

Revisiting Gabbiano Vecchio

Deep in the forest on the Spello side of Mount Subasio, unmarked by any signs and accessible only by a narrow path, lies the remains of a town called Gabbiano Vecchio (Old Seagull). I've posted about it in the past and revisited it on a recent hike. Thus far, I've been able to discover very little of the history of Gabbiano Vecchio. What remains are parts of a few structures, the gem of which is the Chiesa di Sant'Antonio (Church of Saint Anthony). I'm told by an art expert that the frescoes within are likely 17th Century. The church is in the process of decay, so its treasures may not not be around much longer. Here's the path into Gabbiano Vecchio.
Approaching the church.
The altar area.
Saint Anthony.
The dilapidated ceiling.
As seen from the forest.
A word of advice to any hikers: there are poisonous viper snakes in this area. I've never seen one, but it would be wise to avoid stepping or reaching into dark places or dense growth. With an ounce of caution you should have no problems.
Gabbiano Vecchio is a unique and special place.
Ciao.




















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