The sacred side of Val Rendena: churches and guided tours
Val Rendena possesses a rich heritage of sacred landmarks in the form of the great many churches that rise majestically above the area’s towns. In some towns, you will find more than one, such as in Carisolo, Pinzolo, or Madonna di Campiglio.
Most of these holy places, all marked by simple, geometric features, are adorned by the work of the Baschenis family of traveling fresco artists from Averaria, in the province of Bergamo.
Several members of this family worked in dozens of churches throughout the Giudicarie, Val di Sole, Val di Non, and Val di Molveno areas for over seventy years, from circa 1470 to 1540.
Guided tours and visiting hours
During the high season, the churches are open to the public and guided tours with local experts are available.
S. Antonio di Mavignola - Chiesa Sant'Antonio
Parish church, with a very projecting gable roof, which preserves frescoes attributed to Cristoforo Baschenis (early 16th century) and, probably, to another painter for the frescoes on the facade (1481).
Pinzolo - Chiesa di S. Vigilio
The church was frescoed with the important Danza Macabra by Simone Baschenis in 1539, with the message of equality in front of death. Together with the internal frescos, it represents the biggest art exhibition by Simone Il Baschenis di Averara.
Info & guided tours: Azienda per il Turismo 0465 447501.
Carisolo - Chiesa cimiteriale di S. Stefano
On the cemeterial church there is a fresco of the Danza Macabra and other important works by Baschenis.
Audio guides available free of charge in English, German, and Italian.
Info & reservations: Pro Loco Carisolo, +39 0465 501392.
Pelugo - Chiesa S. Antonio Abate
The church is characterized by some frescoes by the painters Cristoforo and Simone Baschenis. It's open to the public, with the chance of guided tours.
Info & reservations: +39 366 4063863.
Massimeno - Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista
From the little square of the village, along a little road with walnuts, you can reach S. Giovanni Battista church, one of the characteristic cultural elements of Rendena valley. It is a medieval church, restored in the Sixteen century and frescoed by Simone Baschenis.
