Magical Seals in Apulian Caves: the Case of the Crocefisso Crypt at Ugento

The surfaces of the Cripta del Crocefisso (The Crypt of the Crucifixion) at Ugento (13th century) are painted with a various repertory of apotropaic and magical signs. The eight-pointed star, the pentalpha, the cross, the shield, the much-suffering eye, the concentric circles, circled dot, the eight-rayed ring sign are painted on the ceiling of the cave to drive out demons and to keep them at bay. These symbols work like magical seals that act as tangible connections to spiritual powers for summoning them and channel the positive vibrations toward the donors.