Church of San Giovanni Battista

Founded on 8 November 1340 by order of Antonio Fieschi, Bishop of Luni, the church is an example of Ligurian Gothic architecture, although its current appearance is the result of several later interventions. The original façade collapsed in the second half of the 19th century and was rebuilt in neo-Gothic style. On that occasion, the white marble rose window, dated 1471 according to an inscription preserved in the bell tower, was recovered and later placed in its current position.

On the sides of the building are decorated portals dating from the 14th century, with zoomorphic and anthropomorphic figures. On the southern side, carved scenes are visible, including a dragon chasing a deer and a sequence of animals recalling medieval iconography connected to European narrative traditions.

The interior has a basilica plan with three naves separated by pointed arches and preserves works reflecting the different historical phases of the church. These include a wooden crucifix attributed to Anton Maria Maragliano, a painting of the Preaching of San Giovanni Battista attributed to Domenico Fiasella, and a marble pulpit from 1530 decorated with a bas-relief depicting San Martino, San Giuseppe and Sant’Anna. Next to the altar is a finely worked portal leading to the sacristy, topped by a 15th-century bas-relief with the Madonna, San Giovanni Battista and San Francesco.

The church is still active and remains the centre of the village’s religious life. The most important moment is the patron saint’s feast on 24 June, dedicated to San Giovanni Battista: during the day, activities are organised by the parish and in the evening a procession crosses the village streets.

The visit is short but meaningful and offers a more intimate space compared with the outside setting. It fits easily into a walking itinerary through the village, also as a pause on the climb towards the upper part.