"...he has been so diligent, and ingenious an imitator of nature, that where other painters are wont to promise he has done." - Girolamo Borsieri, Italian poet and writer
THE STORY BEHIND THE TALENT
Controversial figure, multifaceted personality, internationally renowned artist. Michelangelo Merisi, was born on 1571 in Caravaggio, a town in Lombardy from which he received his nickname of the same name. From his earliest years, he showed great artistic talent, which was supported and financed by prominent figures such as the Sforza and Colonna families. In his early twenties, the restless painter moved to Rome, a choice that allowed him to be noticed by Cardinal Francesco Maria del Monte and other wealthy families including the Borghese, the Costa and the Mattei.
His unmistakable style is based on the representation of reality without any kind of idealisation. Caravaggio knows how to modulate lights and shadows depending on the underlying feeling that moves the scene. Many of his paintings refer to religious episodes which in his hands are transformed into something extraordinary. His works are the result of precise iconographic documentation and a personal conception of the divine and earthly reality.
GENIUS AND UNRULINESS
An untamed, wild character that is impossible to control. Merisi can count on an artistic fecundity immeasurablewhich led him to create works of the calibre of Vocation of St Matthew, Conversion of St Paule Crucifixion of St. Peter, and a biography studded with scandals, quarrels, violence and denunciations. His painting skills have to come to terms with the impetuousness of his being to such an extent that the artist is forced to flee the capital.
Thus began a long series of journeys that took him to different parts of Italy, but which contributed to stimulating his expressive creativity. Among these, we certainly mention stays in Naples, Malta and Sicily. The years of escape only increased the reputation of intemperate genius and at the same time increase his loneliness. He died in 1610 in an inn in Porto Ercole, Tuscany, after being struck down by a strong fever. The great artistic heritage bequeathed to us constitutes a landmark for Italian 17th century art and subsequent artistic currents.
DISCOVERING CARAVAGGIO
Following in the footsteps of the famous artist, you can discover one of the most fascinating cities in northern Italy. Indeed, Caravaggio offers countless places of historical and artistic interest that you absolutely cannot miss. Strolling through the streets of the historic centre you can admire the Church of Saints Fermo and Rustico Martyrs, built in the 16th century in Lombard Gothic style. In particular, it is said that in the 1st century A.D. the two saints, passing through this area, used their miraculous gifts to resurrect a dead man. An interesting neoclassical building also stands a short distance away, the Porta Nuova and the evocative monastery of San Bernardinomade in the 15th century.
Within the monastery complex is the Franciscan convent of St Mary of the Angelswhere it is still possible today to discover Lombard art through the works of some of the greatest artists of the 15th century such as Zenale and Butinone. If you are in the province of Bergamo, therefore, do not forget to visit the famous Sanctuary of the Madonna of Caravaggio. This monumental building is dedicated to the figure of Santa Maria del Fonte. According to the Catholic cult, Our Lady appeared before a young peasant girl in 1432.
To learn more about the history of Caravaggio and other important figures in the province of Bergamowe recommend you read this interesting article: Bergamasque personalities
