Tempietto di San Miserino

ruins
An octagonal brick building stands in the countryside, its shape defined by four semi-circular niches contained within a square. Originally a Roman nymphaeum or thermal bath house from the late imperial era, it was converted into a paleo-Christian chapel around the 6th century. Inside, a shallow dome covers the central space, where remnants of medieval frescoes still cling to the walls. Patches of an old mosaic floor can be seen underfoot, and the capitals supporting the structure are decorated with carved acanthus leaves. The building is part of a larger, excavated Roman villa complex and is currently in a state of ruin. From the town of San Donaci, take the road towards Mesagne. After approximately 5km, turn left onto the Strada Provinciale 51 (SP51) in the direction of Oria. Continue for 2.2km until you see a dirt track on the left marked by a line of trees. Park here and walk along the track. At the first junction, turn right towards a farmhouse; the building is located just behind it. Note: The site is an open ruin with no formal opening hours or fee. It has been subject to a long-interrupted restoration, and the structure is supported by scaffolding. Sources: I Luoghi del Cuore – FAI; Wikipedia; Bisanzio; L'Ora di Brindisi.
Salvato Errore
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