FAI restores Abbazia di Santa Maria di Cerrate, revives ancient fair

FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano) has completed the restoration of the Abbazia di Santa Maria di Cerrate, situated near Lecce, reviving a historic blend of spirituality and local culture. This Romanesque building, featuring stunning Byzantine frescoes, is believed to have been founded by the Norman king Tancredi d'Altavilla. In April 2018, the festival 'Lu panieri' made a comeback after 50 years, celebrating faith and agriculture. Restoration began after FAI got the site in 2012, focusing on reinforcing the building, fixing the roof and windows, adding lighting, and creating a rainwater collection system. The frescoes from the 12th-13th century were carefully restored with help from local heritage authorities. A new touch-screen guide enhances visitor engagement. The mill and oven were also refurbished, and the Casa del Massaro guesthouse opened in June 2018. The abbey's past includes a Turkish pirate raid in 1711 and years of disrepair until architect Franco Minissi began restoration in 1965.