In the narrow streets and compact quarter of Salerno's historic center is the church of the Most Holy Crucifix. Referred to in Italian as the Santissimo Crocifisso, its modern facade hides an ancient interior. The church was built in the 1200s as part of the monastic complex of San Benedetto.
The church was originally called Santa Maria della Pietà di Portanova but the name was changed to reflect the possession of a prized painted wood crucifix created in the 1200s. The important relic is housed in the Diocesan Museum.