The Church of San Giuseppe in Cagnano
The Church of San Giuseppe (17th century), in the heart of Cagnano, houses two 18th-century paintings attributed to Alessio Moderati and a square bell tower with two bells. Set in the picturesque stone village, formerly fortified and with traces of bertescas and noble portals, it represents an identity landmark of the historical-cultural network of Acquasanta Terme.
The Church of San Giuseppe overlooks the small central square of Cagnano, integrating coherently with the building fabric of the village, entirely constructed in local stone. The building, dating back to the 17th century and once dependent on the monastery of Farfa, represents one of the identity cores of the town.
The facade is sober, enhanced by the ancient door from the former noble palace of the place and by a small wooden canopy that, although added in more recent times, does not alter the overall balance of the architectural ensemble. On the left rises a low bell tower with a square tower, with two bells placed in the bell chamber.
Inside, valuable elements are preserved: two oil paintings from the late 18th century, both depicting the Madonna and Saints, attributed to the painter Alessio Moderati. The works decorate the entrance wall and the sacristy, enriching a simple environment but one of strong devotional roots.
Next to the church, other signs of the village’s history are still readable, including an ancient bertesca, the access door towards the path that connected to Acquasanta Terme and an arched window with a balcony behind. The surrounding urban layout – adjoining houses, musket loopholes, narrow passages – confirms the original nature of the town as a fortified nucleus.