ALFONSO DE SANCTIS

Born and dead in Castelgrande (29/12/1905 - 8/1/1993). He had as God-father the Deputy Francesco Saverio Nitti, a friend of his father Potito. He studied in Sala Consilina (Salerno, Campania) and at the Badia of Cava (a Convent in Cava de' Tirreni). He became a Medical Doctor with a degree at the Naples University.

He became Official of the Royal Italian Army in 1932 (Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia), and participated at military operations in East Africa in the period 1933-1936.

When he returned in Castelgrande he worked as a doctor till 1980 when, for the earthquake, his house was partially destroyed. In the period 1981 - 1894 he lived partially in Caserta and partially (in summer) in Castelgrande, in another house of the family. Since 1984 until he died, he retired in Castelgrande. He was a man with an exceptional culture who created an important library. He was a historian, studious of Greek and Latin Classics and of Italian literature. He searched out about the most various subjects, from Sciences to History of Arts. He had an extraordinary memory and had the preparation of a specialist or of an University Professor. He used to spend many hours of the day (and of the night) in reading and re-reading his books. He had a liberal spirit, and a great sarcastic vein. He inspired respect and subjection simply by watching him. He spent most of his life with his sister Elena-Ada, in Castelgrande. He's buried in the Castelgrande Cemetery.

He was for me like a second father.

Uncle Alfonso at my marriage (1986)