Basilica of St Angelo in Formis

The basilica is dedicated to St Michael Archangel and was built in the Longobard era starting in 1073, on the ruins of the temple of Diana Tifatina, using materials salvaged from the ancient sanctuary. Some original elements can be recognised, including the internal columns and in the mullioned windows on the massive bell tower. What qualifies it a monument of rare importance, however, are the frescoes by the Campania Byzantine school decorating its interior, which were painted at the behest ofAbbot Desiderio. It is the largest and most complete medieval cycle in southern Italy: the episodes of the Old and New Testament and the Last Judgement have an emotional power and communicative energy that captivates visitors.