Middle Ages Vandals

Dec 24, 2015 | Art, Curiosities

Graffiti signature. San Zeno Cathedral, Verona, Italy.

Graffiti throughout the Middle Ages

Graffiti or tagging is not only a modern artistic expression. We see examples as far back as the middle ages, and likely earlier. Below you can see several examples of this practice on the frescoes of the stunning Basilica of San Zeno in Verona, Italy built in the X-XI century.

In the fresco of San Zeno being laid to rest by Saints Benigno and Caro, for example, you can see a message left from the two men, with the date June 24, 1390. These graffiti can often be of historical importance and leave additional information about the author, circumstances, or time.

A fresco depicting the Saints Benigno and Caro burying San Zeno. The add a graffiti with the date, June 24, 1390.
A fresco depicting the Saints Benigno and Caro burying San Zeno. The add a graffiti with the date, June 24, 1390.