Caterina Campodonico Resident of Genoa Date of Birth: 01.01.1804 Country: Italy

1. Catherine Campodonico: The Monumental Woman of Genoa
2. Early Life and Humility
3. Verdi's Gratitude and generosity
4. An Unconventional Tomb
5. Public Spectacle and Religious Outcry
6. Legacy and Final Journey

Catherine Campodonico: The Monumental Woman of Genoa

Catherine Campodonico, a resident of Genoa, became renowned for her remarkable living monument located in the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno. Commissioned in 1881, this elaborate sculpture by Lorenzo Orengo immortalized her legacy.

Early Life and Humility

Campodonico was born into a humble family, earning the nickname "Paesana" (peasant woman). To sustain herself, she crafted and sold "canestrelli" (flower-shaped cookies) and "ciambelle" (pretzel-like pastries), as well as necklaces made from hazelnuts, which were believed to promote successful marriages. Her diligent work brought her financial security.

Verdi's Gratitude and generosity

Campodonico's kindness was not limited to her craft. She generously provided chestnuts to Giuseppe Verdi during his student days, when he was struggling financially. As a token of appreciation, Verdi rewarded her with complimentary tickets to his opera premieres.

An Unconventional Tomb

In 1880, after a bout of illness, Campodonico commissioned the renowned sculptor Lorenzo Orengo to design and create her own tomb monument. She entrusted local poet Giobatta Vigo, who wrote in the Ligurian dialect, to compose her epitaph, referring to her as "Cattalini." Driven by a perceived slight from her family, she bequeathed her savings to the creation of this monumental tribute, leaving no inheritance to her kin.

Public Spectacle and Religious Outcry

The living monument, unveiled in 1881, became a sensation in Genoa, attracting widespread attention. However, city and church authorities condemned the act as absurd, believing that erecting a monument to someone still living was inappropriate.

Legacy and Final Journey

Campodonico passed away in 1882 and was buried alongside prominent families in the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno after a solemn mass held at the Church of Santo Stefano. Her funeral procession was attended by a large crowd, cementing her status as a beloved and eccentric figure in the annals of Genoa.