On the façade of the Church of San Marco in Cortona stands a monumental mosaic that contrasts sharply with the city’s medieval and Renaissance character.

It is Gino Severini’s San Marco, one of the Cortona-born artist’s most distinctive works: modern, monumental and rich in symbolism.

Severini designed it to be visible from the valley, almost as if the figure were guiding visitors towards Cortona. St Mark appears far removed from conventional religious imagery, with a solemn, powerful presence that almost recalls a Roman emperor, accompanied by the lion at his feet and a stern, mystical expression.

The work evokes not only Cortona’s patron saint, but also ideas of courage, civic identity and belonging.

But why was such an important work initially met with resistance?

In this episode of Cortona: City of Hidden Treasures, Silvia Vecchini meets art historian Daniela Fonti to uncover the meaning, symbolism and story behind a work that evolved from a controversial addition into one of Cortona’s artistic treasures.