Angri’s historic center tells the story of a priest who, starting from a humble backyard, dedicated his life to the education of the poorest and gave birth to a missionary movement that spread throughout the world.
Angri’s historic center preserves the places where the educational and spiritual work of St. Alphonsus Maria Fusco, who dedicated his life to the poorest and founded the Congregation of the Sisters of St. John the Baptist, took shape. The visit follows a short itinerary linking the Baptistine convent, the original nucleus of the congregation, and the birthplace of the saint, canonized in 2016. It was in these places that his vocation took shape, his commitment to the little ones and the start of a work of charity that is now widespread in many countries.
The birthplace, a discreet home within walking distance of the cathedral
A short distance from the Collegiate Church of St. John the Baptist and the Doria Castle stands the home where Alfonso Maria Fusco was born in 1839, later to devote his life to poor boys, forgotten maidens and the excluded.
The building, now called “Father’s House” by the Baptistine Sisters, is recognizable by the plaque outside that marks its location. Stepping through the main door, one enters a small courtyard that leads to a room that preserves the atmosphere of the saint’s early years. His birth room has been transformed into a small chapel, while the walls display photographs and panels reconstructing his childhood, education and family history.
The educational focus that marked Alfonso Maria Fusco’s mission is still palpable in this place, which today houses a preschool and welcomes young people who wish to deepen their religious journey, thus perpetuating his tireless commitment.
