Vincent's Eremo
Updated at: 08-07-2024
Vincent's Hermitage, located in Guagnano in the province of Lecce, is one of the most fascinating and lesser-known attractions of Salento. This house-museum was entirely created by Vincenzo Maria Brunetti, known as Vincent, a local artist who dedicated over twenty years of his life to crafting this extraordinary piece of art. The Hermitage, also known as Vincent City, is a unique combination of dreamlike architecture, artistic and religious devotion, and a strong influence from the hippie culture.
A Dreamlike Architecture
Vincent City is a place where art meets religion in a harmonious and extraordinary fusion. Every room of the building is adorned with colorful mosaics, statues, and paintings that tell the story and vision of its creator. The structure originated as a small votive chapel but has evolved over time into an ever-transforming artistic complex. The use of recycled materials for construction adds a touch of rusticity and authenticity to this already unique place.
The Story of Vincent
Vincenzo Maria Brunetti, born in Guagnano in 1950, showed a great interest in art from a young age. After graduating in Lecce and selling his first painting to an aunt, he sought fortune in the North, moving to Milan. Here, he attended the Brera Academy and worked in the workshop of Arnaldo Pomodoro, a famous Italian sculptor. However, city life was not for him. He longed for a return to nature and a deeper connection with people, leading to an existential and religious crisis.
Creating a Legacy
Inspired by the figure of Robinson Crusoe, Vincent decided to create his "island" in an agricultural field he had bought in his youth in Guagnano, at via Case Sparse. This four-thousand-square-meter land became the center of his artistic and life project. Every corner of the Hermitage is a testament to his vision: a better world through art. The mosaics explode with colors and contain biblical exhortations, mixing the sacred with the profane, statues of Madonnas with those of animals, copies of masterpieces with the most colorful mosaics.
A Local Celebrity
Vincent, with his gray hair and vibrant speech, is a local celebrity in Salento. His eccentric personality and artistic talent have attracted the attention of many, making Vincent's Hermitage not only a tourist destination but also a set for music videos, such as the summer hit "Karaoke" by Boomdabash and Alessandra Amoroso. The colorful walls at the entrance of the complex bear expressions like "Rural Palace" and "City of Art and Place of Psychic Relaxation and Collective Catharsis", perfectly describing the atmosphere of this magical place.
A Unique Experience
Visiting Vincent's Hermitage is a unique experience. It is not just a tourist visit but an immersion into Vincent's world. If the owner is home, he will be happy to give a personalized tour, sharing stories and anecdotes about his life and the artworks adorning every corner of the structure. If you're lucky, you might even see him at work, painting one of his canvases.
Getting There
Vincent's Hermitage is located at via Case Sparse 718, Guagnano. Getting there by car is very easy: just follow the signs to Guagnano. Once you arrive, you'll find convenient parking and the start of an experience you will hardly forget.
What to See Nearby
After visiting the Hermitage, it's worth taking a walk around the town of Guagnano. One of the local attractions is the Negroamaro Museum, dedicated to the famous wine from Lecce. This small museum in the historic center offers a glimpse into the ancient equipment used for grape processing and wine production. Don't forget to stop at one of the outdoor tables to taste some excellent local wine.
A Parallel with Parc Güell
Vincent's Hermitage is often compared to Parc Güell in Barcelona for its eccentric architecture and wealth of colors and shapes. The mosaic-covered walls and whimsical statues are reminiscent of Antoni Gaudí's creations, offering visitors an extraordinary visual and sensory experience. It is an ideal place to spend a day immersed in the art and beauty of Salento.
A Must-See in Puglia
If you find yourself in Puglia, Vincent's Hermitage is a must-see. Not only for its artistic beauty but also for the fascinating story of its creator and the philosophy of life it conveys. Vincent has created a better world through art, a place where every visitor can find inspiration, peace, and a new perspective on life.
Conclusion
Vincent's Hermitage is much more than a simple tourist attraction. It is a journey into the world of a visionary artist who dedicated his life to creating something unique and extraordinary. The fusion of art, religion, and nature makes this place an ode to human creativity and the possibility of transforming the world through beauty. Don't miss the chance to visit this enchanted corner of Salento and discover the incredible legacy of Vincent Brunetti.