CHURCH OF ST. MICHELE

Immersed in the tranquility of the Verbano mountains, the small church of San Michele al Monte is an evocative example of Romanesque architecture

Nestled in the quiet of the Verbano mountains, the little church of San Michele al Monte is a striking example of Romanesque architecture dating back between the 11th and 12th centuries.

Built as an alpine chapel, it served the communities who moved to the highlands during the summer to look after the livestock.

The simple and compact building consists of a single hall of approximately 30 square meters, ending in a semicircular apse facing east in keeping with ancient tradition. The interior is covered with cross vaults, divided into two bays, while the exterior features a gabled façade in exposed stone, embellished only by a low portal and a small upper window. A curious and unique feature is the presence of a small 19th-century triangular bell tower.

Particularly interesting are the remains of frescoes dating back to various periods between the 12th and 16th centuries. Among these stands out a rare Madonna del Latte among saints, attributed to the painter Guglielmo Jotti da Montegrino. The apse, the oldest part of the church, preserves skillfully arranged rows of stones and pebbles, including in a herringbone pattern.

First mentioned at the end of the 13th century in Book of Information ,San Michele al Monte has come to light again thanks to recent restorations and studies by local historian Pierangelo Frigerio, who have highlighted its historical and artistic importance.