Misericordia

Misericordia is a church located on Via Mazzini in Pietrasanta that houses remarkable frescoes within its compact interior. The building combines traditional architectural elements with modern artistic works from the late 20th century.

The church is dedicated to Saint Anthony the Great and Saint Blaise and has preserved its original architectural features over time. A major turning point came in 1993 when a Colombian artist added modern works that expanded the medieval structure with contemporary art.

Fernando Botero created two large panels in 1993 depicting the Gates of Paradise and Gates of Hell in his characteristic voluminous style. These modern artworks create an interesting contrast within the classical architecture of the building.

You will find the church at Via Mazzini 103 in Pietrasanta, near other cultural sites such as the Duomo di San Martino and Museo dei Bozzetti. It is a good idea to visit during daylight hours when there is enough light to fully see the frescoes and artworks.

Botero's fresco of Hell contains a self-portrait of the artist alongside historical figures such as Adolf Hitler. This hidden detail connects medieval religious tradition with a modern artistic statement about good and evil.