Giuseppe Candido, scientist, artist, bishop of Lecce

Giuseppe Candido is a figure who embodies the meeting between science, art and spirituality, an example of how passions and skills can intertwine to give life to works of great significance and social impact. His collaboration with Father Nicola Miozzi, a prominent physicist, was crucial to his education and his involvement in pioneering experiments such as public lighting in Lecce in 1859, an event that marked an important stage in the technological progress of the city.

After obtaining a degree in Mathematics and Physics at the University of Naples, Candido returned to Lecce in 1861, where he founded a private school of experimental physics. His dedication to the generation of electricity led him to patent the regulating diaphragm battery, an achievement that earned him a special mention at the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1867. In his role as an educator, he taught at several institutions, contributing to the training of new generations of students.

Between 1868 and 1874, Candido designed and implemented a network of electric public clocks, an innovative project for the time, which responded to a tangible community need. His letter to the Lecce Municipal Council, in which he highlighted the absence of public clocks, reflected a pragmatic vision and a strong desire to improve the daily lives of citizens. Clock dials were installed at strategic points around the city, and this network remained in operation for nearly seventy years, underscoring the farsightedness of its design.

In addition to his scientific successes, Candide was also a man of art. His passion for painting resulted in a series of works, including religious paintings and high reliefs, although many of them have been lost over time. His artistic production, although limited, demonstrates his versatility and sensitivity, confirming that his creativity was not limited only to the confines of science.

His appointment as Bishop of Lampsacus in 1881, which occurred without his knowledge, marked a new chapter in his life. Despite his initial reticence, Candido accepted the role with a spirit of obedience, showing his dedication to his priestly vocation. As Bishop of Ischia, he distinguished himself for his commitment to the recovery of the island after the devastating earthquake of 1883, also dedicating himself to education and social inclusion.

Candide led the diocese with an inclusive and open pastoral style. His ability to unite faith with reason and science made him a point of reference not only for the ecclesiastical community, but also for the scientific one. His appointment as Corresponding Member of the Pontifical Academy of the New Lincei in 1900 is a testimony to his contribution to science.

His death in 1906 in Ischia marked the end of a life dedicated to service, knowledge and beauty. The figure of Giuseppe Candido remains a beacon of inspiration for all those who dedicate themselves to scientific research, art and spirituality. His legacy lives on through the innovations he introduced and the deep connection he created between the community and its history, demonstrating that passion and commitment can truly transform the world.