Saint Luciella Skull Necklace

This unique piece is handcrafted in Italy from solid 925 sterling silver, honoring the Church of Santa Luciella and the Neapolitan legend of the "skull with ears." Let us explore the mystery surrounding the skull housed within the church's hypogeum. Indeed, the historic center of Naples preserves a centuries-old legend: that of the skull with ears. The church's underground chamber holds a rare specimen of a skull featuring mummified cartilage. The faithful used to direct their prayers to this relic, hoping that by hearing them, it could convey them to the appropriate powers in the afterlife.
 
Currently, the only confirmed fact concerns its origins: scholars date the skull housed in the hypogeum of the Church of Santa Luciella ai Librai in Naples to the 17th century. The legend of the skull is linked to the cult of the *anime pezzentelle*—the unknown, anonymous, and abandoned souls denied a proper burial, whose skeletons were left in mass graves. By "adopting" a skull, a believer could alleviate the suffering of the *anima pezzentella* and receive graces in return.
 
The Church of Santa Luciella ai Librai in Naples is a small architectural gem in the heart of the city. It is located in the alley of the same name—known to the Romans as *Vicus Cornelianus*—which connects San Biagio dei Librai to San Gregorio Armeno.
 
Pendant length: approx. 2.5 cm; chain length: approx. 45 cm or approx. 73 cm.