Graffiti d'Italia/Giotto's Chapel
GIOTTO'S CHAPEL,
PADUA.
How sweet the mild retirement of this spot!This area, where the gladiator bled,With turf and flowers is softly carpeted;These girdling walls where later knighthood foughtNow draped with ivy stand, remembering notTheir scenes of former life. But here, instead,The artist's steps in pilgrimage are ledTo seek the shrine by Giotto's genius wrought.Here, dedicate to art and piety,His simple chapel stands; and painted hereUpon its walls a pictured life I see,Inspired by feeling, earnest and sincere.What faith, what simple dignity and graceArt since hath lost, are in this cloistered place!