AmalfiCoast Costiera Amalfitana

The night between December 1 and 2, 1875, is etched in the historical memory of Amalfi as one of the most tragic in its history. A violent flood swept through the Valle dei Mulini, the pulsating heart of Amalfi's renowned paper-making industry and an area of extraordinary natural beauty. The toll was devastating: twelve lives lost and incalculable damage to businesses and buildings.

Among the destroyed structures was the church of the Madonna del Rosario, located along the path leading to the "Ferriera". This cherished place of worship, central to the lives of the valley's residents, was washed away by the torrential waters. Yet, not everything was lost. Amidst the debris, the statue of the Madonna emerged miraculously intact, missing only one finger, which was later recovered from the mud. This event was interpreted as a sign of divine protection, rekindling faith and hope in the heart of the grieving community.

In the words of Monsignor Francesco Majorsini, the aftermath of the disaster was marked by profound sorrow: "What torment, what anguish in the hearts of the survivors, and what bewilderment! Had God grown weary of us? Yet, a friendly voice offered solace. The Madonna del Rosario, untouched in her image by the fury of the waters, seemed to say: 'Rise, my children, do not despair; lift your eyes to Heaven; there is a Father there who hears your laments and transforms the tears of your heart into jewels.'"

The church was rebuilt on the edge of what was then known as Chiano 'e Pansa, now Villa Paradiso, a stunning lemon grove that continues to thrive today. This grove supplies lemons to the historic Pasticceria Pansa, a cornerstone of Amalfi's heritage, located in Piazza Duomo.

Today, December 2, Amalfi will honor the memory of this calamity. The statue of the Madonna del Rosario will be carried in a solemn procession to the site of the disaster. A holy mass will follow, celebrated in memory of the victims and as an act of gratitude for the Virgin's enduring symbolism of hope and protection.

Next year, in 2025, Amalfi will commemorate the 150th anniversary of this dramatic event. The parish priest, don Antonio, is already planning a special program to remember the flood and celebrate the unbreakable bond between the city and the Madonna del Rosario.

The miraculous survival of the Madonna's statue, paired with the resilience of Amalfi's people, stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and solidarity in the face of tragedy.

Sources: Pasquale De Crescenzo, Sigismondo Nastri