Santa Maria del Tiglio
Rising from Gravedona's waterfront piazza, Santa Maria del Tiglio is one of the finest Romanesque churches on Lake Como, its black-and-white striped stone façade reflected in the water on calm mornings. Built in the 12th century on the foundations of an early-Christian baptistery, it holds centuries of quiet drama inside a compact, perfectly proportioned shell.
Architecture Worth Crossing the Lake For
The alternating bands of dark Moltrasio stone and pale marble give the exterior an almost graphic, modern feel that belies its medieval age. Look up at the octagonal bell tower, which was cleverly grafted onto the original structure in the 13th century and remains one of the most photographed silhouettes on the upper lake.
Step inside to find a wooden crucifix dating to the 12th century hanging above the apse — a haunting, Byzantine-inflected Christ figure that art historians rank among Lombardy's finest Romanesque sculptures. The cool interior also preserves fragmentary frescoes and a rare sunken area marking the site of the original baptismal font.
Visiting Practically
The church sits right on Piazza Ferruccio Bianchi, steps from the lakeside promenade, so it fits naturally into a waterfront stroll. Opening hours can be irregular outside summer; the tourist office on the same square usually has a current schedule and can arrange a guided visit.
Early morning light strikes the façade at a low, golden angle between May and September, which is when photographers set up their tripods along the low wall opposite. Arrive before 9 am to have the piazza almost entirely to yourself.
More of Gravedona
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Gravedona →
