St Amatus Giving a Blessing
Here we see what is perhaps the most representative work in Nusco: an 18th-century oil on canvas by an unknown artist.
It depicts St Amatus, the first bishop and protector of the town. The son of Landone, Amatus was born in Nusco in the 11th century. He devoted himself to spreading the Gospel in Alta Irpinia, enlarged Nusco Cathedral and founded several churches, including San Lorenzo in Bagnoli Irpino and the monastery of Santa Maria di Fontigliano, in the countryside around Nusco. On his deathbed, in 1093, he left all his possessions to the town. The saint is shown seated on a cloud, surrounded by angels, blessing with his right hand and holding his crozier in his left. In the background is a panoramic view of Nusco. The same composition also appears in printed engravings, evidence of the devotion the saint inspired over the centuries.