IN THE IDYLLIC TOWN OF Porto Venere sits a peaceful bronze statue that represents Mother Nature. Her position on the rocky crags above Lord Byron’s Grotto gives her a fantastic view of the Gulf of La Spezia. Despite her windy perch, the sculpture appears serene, contemplative, and infinitely patient. 

Created by Neapolitan artist Lello Scorzelli, this very matronly figure evokes all the best attributes of mothering, nurturing, and abundance. Scorzelli is well-known locally as the sculptor who crafted the pastoral staff carried by Pope John Paul II.