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.