The church of Santa Giusta, in Chiaramonti, in Anglona, (Sassari) is one of the most mysterious and fascinating places in Italy. The building is medieval. The first written testimony of its existence dates back to 1205. This is reported in an act of the time, with which the noblewoman Maria De Thori he gave it as a gift to the prior general ofAbbey of San Salvatore di Camaldoli. Together with it, the woman also donated the nearby church of Santa Maria di Orria Pithinna, as well as houses, pastures, vineyards, animals, servants and handmaids, so that the prior could found two monasteries there. What makes the church worthy of interest is not so much its artistic and architectural value, but a source that flows under its flooring. It is visible from inside through a small window placed under the steps of the altar, created in 1895 by the sculptor Joseph Sartorius.
The powers of the source
Below the country church of Chiaramonti flows a spring whose water was immediately considered curative. Due to the presence of this "miraculous" natural spring, the church is also called de s'Abba (i.e. water). In a short time, the place of worship became a pilgrimage destination for numerous faithful who asked for grace from Santa Giusta. Once healed, they left ex-votos and large offerings as a sign of gratitude. Over time, those offerings became a real treasure.
It is said that…
A legend hovers around the church which is handed down by the elders of the town, supported by the presence of four walled skulls, still visible at the main entrance. It is said that, one night, four bandits entered the church to steal the treasure, but once inside, the door closed behind them. At the same time, the water level of the spring began to rise, flooding the building and causing the men to drown.
Just before dying, they invoked Santa Giusta asking for forgiveness. The saint saved their souls, but in exchange she demanded that the four, once dead, perpetually guard the church's treasure. For this reason their skulls were walled up on one of the walls. Because of this legend, the church suffered serious disfigurements by other raiders, seekers of the mysterious treasure.
The party
The church, over time, has undergone several restorations which have distorted its original appearance. Every year the celebrations of Santa Giusta take place there, which attract the population of the entire territory. As happened in the past, even today, the faithful who ask the saint for a favor reach the church on foot, covering at least 10 kilometres. In fact, this is the distance that separates the place of worship from the town centre.
(Photo: Wikipedia; Municipality of Chiaramonti, Facebook page)
