5 – SAINT ANDREA PARISH CHURCH (ENG)

The Montedivalli Parish Church is in the part of Lunigiana that extends into the Val di Vara, along the route traditionally traveled by pilgrims on their journey to Santiago de Compostela.

It was first mentioned in 963 as “castrum sancti Andree” and later in 1148 as “Pieve di Sancti Andree de Castello”. The site was abandoned in the 18th century due to its inconvenient location in relation to residential settlements. However, a long restoration process began in 1910 and lasted until 2011, when the church was reconsecrated.

The gabled façade, made of rough-hewn sandstone, features a simple portal dated 1643, reflecting the various renovations the pieve has undergone over the centuries. A particularly interesting detail is the rectangular relief placed at the height of the semicircular window, depicting a mysterious figure in clerical robes, holding a book and a long staff—possibly an abbot, a bishop, or even Saint James of Compostela himself.

The three hierarchically arranged apses are adorned with hanging arches and decorative motifs, including anthropomorphic, zoomorphic, and phytomorphic elements. The right apse is now incorporated into the bell tower and is no longer visible from outside.

The interior consists of three naves, separated by columns with sculpted capitals that exhibit both figurative and Corinthian designs, inspired by the Romanesque style of the Po Valley. One of these capitals is particularly notable, featuring anthropomorphic and animal figures such as a human figure, lions, a bull’s head, and a lamb. The baptismal font is carved from white marble to the left of the entrance.