Pilgrims who obtain the special blessing at the Cathedral of Gaeta, declared Holy Door during the Jubilee of Mercy, may also visit the nearby church of the “Maria Santissima di Porto Salvo”, patroness and queen of the sea. The late Neapolitan Baroque church preserves in a small apse the statue of the Madonna of Porto Salvo, above the polychrome marble altar. For a few years the art of bobbin lace has been taught here by professional lace-makers belonging to the association “Foresta di Cervaro” and several exhibitions have been held displaying the works of the students.
This art has very ancient origins and bobbins made of bone have even been found in Etruscan tombs. Bobbin lace has been a source of livelihood for many women, who had to work hard in order to satisfy the needs of the wealthy classes. Over time several schools have been created and today this rare, peculiar kind of embroidery, whose secrets have been preserved and handed down, is appreciated by all lovers of beauty and represents an investment for future generations.
The parish priest Don Giuseppe Rosoni, in order to save this precious tradition, learned the art of bobbin lace and still creates impressive works, included liturgical apparel embroidered in gold. On August 7, 2016, during the celebration of the Madonna of Porto Salvo two exhibitions about gold embroidery and bobbin lace and a demonstration by Don Rosoni will be organized.