Il Salvatore salvato, the Saved Saviour: a sculpture carved from the trunk of a centuries-old olive tree killed by Pierce's disease

The sculpture Il Salvatore salvato, the Saved Saviour, carved from the trunk of a centuries-old olive tree that died of Pierce's disease. The crucifix stands on the Salento peninsula, in a burnt olive grove from which, shortly before the fire, the trunk of the dead ancient tree had been taken.

The spread of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in some regions of Italy is one of the most destructive plant epidemics in recent history, which has claimed the lives of millions of centuries-old trees. Abandoned groves of withered trees burn regularly. Against this background, projects have emerged that offer the olive tree a "second life". Its wood is turned into sculptures, craft items and even smartphone cases, with the proceeds going towards planting new trees