Church of San Cristoforo (Camerino)

What to see in the Church of San Cristoforo

The reason to make the trip to Arnano is the painted interior. The frescoes depict the Crucifixion and St. Christopher, patron saint of pilgrims, a Madonna della Misericordia (Madonna of Mercy) and other figures of saints.

The painter remains anonymous, despite more recent attempts at attribution. Art historians have named him the Maestro di Arnano (Master of Arnano), after this hamlet. Recent studies describe him as a minor painter from Camerino active in the late 15th century.

How to visit the Church of San Cristoforo

Before setting out, it is worth checking the access conditions for the church: this is a building in a small hamlet, not a major monument organized for visitors.

Where the Church of San Cristoforo is located

The church stands in the village of Arnano, in the municipality of Camerino. The hamlet lies on the slopes of Monte Igno, in an area rich in water that flows from several springs.

Around the Church of San Cristoforo

Arnano lies along the stage of the Antica Via Romano Lauretana from Serravalle di Chienti to Camerino. The full stage is 13 km long, with 632 m of elevation gain and a hiking difficulty grade (E). The listed walking time is about 4 hours and 50 minutes.

The hamlet had its most prosperous period in the late Middle Ages. Since ancient times, its inhabitants made objects in fired clay.

In Camerino, the visit can continue at the Basilica of San Venanzio in Camerino. For other churches in the area, see the page on the churches of the Sibillini Mountains.