Monte della Croce (formerly “Monte Sereno”) is one of the most panoramic points of the coastal city of San Benedetto del Tronto, at the top of which, in 1901, a large cross overlooking the city, clearly visible both day and night from almost the entire central area of San Benedetto. Unfortunately, today it is abandoned, as it is surrounded by thick woodland, but it is a strong point of reference for the people of San Benedetto. Especially in ancient times when represented support, assistance and protection for the people sailor and peasant who, during hard work, looked at him as if asking for divine help.
The old name of the Monte della Croce
In particular, what is now called Monte della Croce, in the past was known as “Mount Aniceto”. In fact, in this place, on December 22, 1822, a resident lost his life of San Benedetto del Tronto, Aniceto Merlini, which fell from the mountain itself. And a cross was placed there to remember his death. Then, in the years to come, it was called by all the people of San Benedetto as “the mountain of Neceto" or "the mountain of Muscio” from the nickname of the unfortunate Aniceto.
The history of the mountain
But Monte della Croce took its current name in 1901 Monsignor Francesco Sciocchetti, well-deserving priest of the Church of the Madonna della Marina, wanted to erect a cross there to commemorate the Jubilee of 1900. However, at that time the State and the Church were in great conflict with each other. And the climate was not particularly favorable to any form of religion whatsoever. For this reason Monsignor Sciocchetti wanted to give the community a tangible sign of ChristianityBut a fervent anticlerical named Romulus raised a red flag on the cross. However, the parish priest, alerted to the fact, removed it.
But Romulus demanded its return. Probably when the priest refused, he took him to court. When the judge asked him where the flag was, he replied that he had buried it in the dunghill, causing the laughter of those present. Therefore, no crime was alleged against him. Therefore, he was acquitted. Finally, In 1944 the German military blew up the cross. But in In 1947, coinciding with the post-war celebrations, it was returned to the city.
The road that leads to Monte della Croce
Until the 70s the mountain was goal of pilgrimagesCurrently, the only road to reach the summit crosses a private property. Once you reach the top of the hill, you find yourself facing the cross. Recently, Monte della Croce has been equipped with a large lighthouse that illuminates the cross, replacing the old lamp with a new LED light fixture. Furthermore, the area is secured against potential electromagnetic pollution.
Thanks for the cover image: Patrizia Cicconi
