The Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Pietro in Corsena, above La Villa, dates from the 11th century and possibly even earlier. It is one of the most interesting in the area. I wandered up there recently and luckily found it open.
It was a bit dark inside, so the photos are not as good as they could be. The wooden altar and the pews date from the 17th century.
The gabled facade is not the original one. Early in the 20th century the old double lancet window was replaced with the rose which is there now, pity really. On the right there was once a small porch, older than the facade, which was exterior to the original church. It has been amalgamated into the building as you can see from the brickwork.
It is possible to see the mix of building materials, showing various repairs.
The bell tower dates from the 17th century.
The church may date from as far back as the mid 7th century, when the Lombards (or Longobards) became Christians. Generally, towns grew around a castle and a church and this is most likely the original church for the area.
Countess Matilda di Canossa ( of Devil’s Bridge fame) loved the area and is said to have contributed to work on the church in the 12th century.
Take the time to walk up from La Villa to see this lovely old church. There are also good views from the courtyard in front of the church.
Bella Bagni di Lucca 
It is a beautiful church. Unfortunately, the lights are never on with the exception of Mass time. The Parish has no money and it is expensive to have the lights on. I have seen it decorated with flowers and candles when there are festivities and it looks gorgeous. There is also a beautiful procession held in September, a “luminaria” for the Santa Croce,which is worth attending.
I would love to see it decorated with flowers and candles. It must look lovely.
I love spartan church interiors like this one. So much more inspiring that the bling of later centuries. The way the building’s history is written in the architecture is so beautiful. I always love the way you capture the little details Debra.
It is a lovely old church, I was lucky to find it open.
I’m always amazed at what is hidden behind the doors of an Italian church…in the summer time, it is so enjoyable to just go inside a church, light a candle, and enjoy the coolness and quiet of the interior – whether quaint or massive inside – and leave behind the heat & noise of the outside world. Reflective moments are a way to slow down and enjoy the moment. Thanks for sharing.
Susan
They are delightfully cool in summer and freezing in winter!
the area is dotted with this style of church. the simplicity is much more appealing than the gold laden large cathedrals.
simular church – http://gingersflowers.blogspot.com/2008/06/civita-di-bagnoregio-tuscany-italy.html
We visited Bagnoregio a couple of years ago and loved it. I left a comment on your blog, but it registered as anonymous.
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Thankyou Debra and Martha for sending the message to look at the church, it is where my great grandmother Maria Giaconda Natalia Tovani was Baptized…on 26 Dec 1855. Her brother Bernardo Luigi Tovani was possibly baptized there too, dont know. Many thanks a very emotional experience to see the beauty of the church. Anne Bussanich
I am happy to have been able to share the lovely church with you.