Bust of Saint Nicholas of Myra blessing, 18th century, Basilica of St. Nicholas, Bari, Apulia, Italy

saint nicholas bust blessing basilica religious artifact 18th century craftsmanship italy apulia history christian art statue sculpture heritage silver ornate display tradition culture figure devotion veneration sacred architecture gallery relics iconography worship baroque spirituality tourism pilgrimage saints significance artistry historical italian decorations interior cultural silverwork site space legacy traditions