Maybe coincidences don’t exist, but we can’t help doubting it. Because it’s precisely this year, when the national roller skating teams return to compete in Scanno, that our St. Christopher comes back to life.
The fresco has decorated the façade of the church of Madonna del Carmine since time immemorial. Seasons and merciless weather had made it nearly unrecognizable—until just a few months ago. A long and meticulous restoration has returned it to its original splendor, restoring, in our opinion, all its thaumaturgic and evocative power.
“That” St. Christopher is important to Scanno.
Regardless of the religious tradition or the story of this giant, here he has always been seen primarily as the protector of all those who entrusted their lives to some kind of luck. Travelers relied on him, but above all, migrants—those who left hoping one day to return with the dream of a better, more stable, and safer life. Fathers would leave in search of fortune, and St. Christopher would remain behind to watch over the families and remind them of the purpose behind the sacrifice of separation.
Among our mountains, the figure of St. Christopher almost merges with a kind of “Lady Luck” who gives courage to travelers, wanderers, street musicians, to those far from home and—don’t ask us why—to athletes too!
If it’s true, as legend says, that looking at the fresco brings good luck and extends life, many will be glancing at it in the coming days.
Luckily, he’s also had his makeup touched up!
