CHURCH OF SANTA VERONICA

Overlooking the picturesque Gulf of Caldè, in the municipality of Castelveccana, the church of Santa Veronica is a building rich in history and spirituality that harmoniously combines elements of Romanesque and Baroque architecture

Originally built in the 13th century, the church served shepherds, farmers, and soldiers attached to the Rocca di Caldè. Even after the castle was destroyed by the Swiss in 1513, the chapel was preserved and later expanded.

The current building features a single nave divided into four bays, gradually added until the mid-16th century. Of the original structure, only the semicircular apse and the bay that now forms the presbytery survive. Subsequent expansions used large ashlar stone and rustic roofing, giving the church the solid and harmonious appearance that characterizes it today.

During the Borromean era, Cardinal Federico Borromeo ordered the closure of the three original doors on the western side, replacing them with a single central entrance. Also of particular note is the late Romanesque pronaos preceding the façade, perfectly preserved along with the apse and internal arches.

The church of Santa Veronica is still the destination of a heartfelt popular tradition, with the faithful who go there every Easter Monday.