The church of San Mamante, a small sanctuary located near Caleipo, was built around the mid-13th century as a vow of the people of Belluno. The saint was chosen as a protector against wild animals and childhood diseases. The first documentary mention of the church dates back to 1289. Over time, it became a destination for pilgrimages, especially by mothers seeking intercession for breastfeeding their children.
During the 16th century, under the impetus of the priest and humanist Pierio Valeriano, the church was enlarged: an apse with a small dome and shelters for pilgrims were added. Offerings from the faithful enabled the beautification of the church with statues, furnishings, and frescoes attributed to Pomponio Amalteo or Nicolò De Stefani. Important paintings depicting episodes of the saint's life were created by Francesco Frigimelica the Elder.
Popular devotion also centered around the well “Loda,” which miraculously sprang up next to the church during its construction. The water, believed to be miraculous, was used to stimulate lactation and heal the sick. Even today, the well is a place of devotion.
The cult of San Mamante (or Mamete), a 3rd-century martyr, has Byzantine origins and is widespread in Italy as well. According to legend, the saint lived in solitude among wild animals that listened to him as disciples, until his martyrdom. Another version states that he was born in prison, adopted by a wet nurse, and pierced in the chest by a trident.
Popular devotion has generated many legends related to miracles and wonders, including children nourished through the intercession of the saint and symbolic punishments for those who doubted his powers. Until the 18th century, a famous festival was celebrated on August 17 with religious celebrations and civil festivities, which over time declined.
Today, San Mamante remains a place rich in spirituality and collective memory, where faith, tradition, and legend merge into a popular tale deeply rooted in the Belluno territory.
