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Località: Viale S. Nicandro, 98-102 - Venafro - Isernia

Basilica of Saints Martyrs Nicandro, Marciano and Daria

Located in eastern Venafro, along the road to Isernia, the Basilica of Saints Martyrs Nicandro, Marciano and Daria is a sacred place of deep devotion and one of the most significant religious monuments in Molise. The church stands on ancient Roman remains, part of which were reused in the construction, thus testifying to the millennial continuity of worship and human settlement in this area.

The interior structure, with two naves, holds masterpieces of sacred art and wooden craftsmanship: the high altar, in finely inlaid and pyrographed walnut, is a magnificent work by Friar Bernardino da Mentone (18th cent.), embellished with a carved antependium and a richly decorated tabernacle. In the center is a fine painting of the Madonna with the Patron Saints (late 17th century) by Flemish painter Dirck Hendricks, known in Italy as Teodoro d’Errico. On either side of the central canvas are two niches with wooden statues of St. Fidelis of Sigmaringa and St. Felix of Cantalice; a painting dedicated to St. Michael stands out in the upper part, flanked by lunettes with Franciscan portraits, including St. Bonaventure of Bagnorea and St. Louis of Toulouse.

The entire chancel, masterfully decorated, offers a harmonious blend of faith and art. Also on the walls are paintings by Molisian artist Amedeo Trivisonno, illustrating the events of the martyrs Nicander, Marcianus and Daria, patrons of the city.

An element of special veneration is the crypt under the high altar, where the tomb of St. Nicander is kept. A small well by the tomb collects the mysterious “Manna of San Nicandro,” a liquid substance to which the faithful attribute miraculous properties. The church is the destination of continuous pilgrimages, especially during patronal feasts.

Next to the Basilica is the Franciscan convent, founded in 1573 by Fr. Giovanni Maria da Tusa at the request of the municipality. The convent incorporates the ancient little church built on the very site of the martyrdom of the three saints and hosted important provincial chapters in 1578 and 1586. Notable historical episodes include the brief stay, between October and December 1911, of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, who was the protagonist here of mysterious events noted by his confrere Father Agostino from San Marco in Lamis.

As a seal of its spiritual and historical importance, the church received the title of Basilica, preserving inside it the relics of the three Holy Martyrs. Venafro also shares with Isernia the role of co-cathedral, underscoring the centrality of this place in the religious life of the region. A shrine rich in art, faith and memory, it represents a living treasure of Molise’s heritage.

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