In the heart of Altamura, a picturesque town in southern Italy, stands a monument that whispers tales of history and grandeur – the Epitaph of Altamura, or as the locals call it, Epitaffio di Altamura. This commemorative structure, though modest in size, holds a significant place in the annals of the town's rich past.
The Epitaph of Altamura is shrouded in a fascinating historical enigma. According to the renowned historian Ottavio Serena, this monument was erected shortly after the visit of Joseph Bonaparte, the elder brother of the infamous Napoleon Bonaparte, to Altamura on April 8, 1807. Joseph, who had recently ascended the throne as the King of Naples, was on his way back to Naples from Taranto. The citizens of Altamura, along with their municipal representatives, greeted him with great enthusiasm in the square that has since been known as Largo Epitaffio. Joseph Bonaparte, in his brief stay, made several promises to the people, lodged at the house of Count Viti, and then continued his journey, reaching Venosa by April 9 and Naples by April 12.
However, recent studies by the local scholar Michele Marvulli offer a different narrative. According to Marvulli, the Epitaph of Altamura dates back to 1797, commemorating the visit of King Ferdinand IV and Queen Maria Carolina of Austria to Altamura. This visit is well-documented by various sources, including the chronicles of Vitangelo Bisceglia, which mention the destruction of a royal coat of arms in the San Martino area (where the epitaph is located) in 1799, just two years after it was placed there for the royal visit.
The Epitaph of Altamura originally featured an inscription, the imperial eagle, and the royal coat of arms. According to Serena's reconstruction, the inscription was erased, and the emblems were rendered unrecognizable following the restoration of Ferdinand I of Bourbon to the throne in 1815. Today, the inscription is no longer legible, and the coats of arms are partially indistinguishable, adding to the monument's air of mystery and historical intrigue.
Despite its weathered appearance, the Epitaph of Altamura stands as a proud symbol of the town's historical significance. It is not a funerary inscription, as its name might suggest, but rather a commemorative monument celebrating important visits and events in the town's history. Its location in Largo Epitaffio, a square named after the monument itself, underscores its importance to the local community.
While visiting Altamura, the Epitaph is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The town itself is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites, including the stunning Altamura Cathedral, known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture, and the famous Altamura Man, a well-preserved Neanderthal skeleton discovered in the nearby Lamalunga Cave.
The Epitaph of Altamura is more than just a stone monument; it is a testament to the town's vibrant history and its connections to significant historical figures and events. Whether it marks the visit of Joseph Bonaparte or the royal couple Ferdinand IV and Maria Carolina, it stands as a silent witness to the town's storied past.
When you visit the Epitaph of Altamura, take a moment to reflect on the layers of history encapsulated in this modest stone structure. Imagine the bustling square filled with townsfolk eagerly greeting their royal visitors or the solemn silence as the monument bore witness to the passage of time and the changes in power. The Epitaph of Altamura invites you to step back in time and experience a piece of history that has shaped the identity of this charming Italian town.
In conclusion, the Epitaph of Altamura is a captivating monument that offers a glimpse into the rich historical tapestry of Altamura. Its enigmatic origins, combined with its commemorative significance, make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the historical and cultural heritage of this beautiful region of Italy.
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