Top of the World
The ancient monumental complex of S. Maria d'Orsoleo, located in the territory of S. Arcangelo, dominates the villages of the Agri Valley.
In 1474 the count Eligio della Marra built a monastery for the observant friars, incorporating the old chapel of S. Maria. The date of construction of the Church is not known.
Remodeled in 1600 with the addition of new structures, it belonged to the Friars Minor Observant.
The cloister, around which it develops, preserves numerous frescos of 1500, among which a composition representing the Pietà of Christ. The church, situated on one side of the convent, preserves a carved altar and a polychrome wooden ceiling.
The flourishing growth of the convent was interrupted by the harsh post-unification subversive laws that led to the suppression of all religious orders and congregations.
Lately the monumental complex has been the object of a complex work of restoration, which has given back to the convent its ancient splendor.
In spite of the long period of restoration, the tradition of the pilgrimage to the sanctuary on September 8th every year has remained alive.
