Church of San Giovanni (Valfornace)

History of the Church of San Giovanni

The church's original layout dates from the late Middle Ages, between the 13th and 14th centuries. A small convent or hermitage was later added to it. Of that complex, the outer walls and most of the original windows remain, now incorporated into the rectory.

In the following centuries the building was profoundly transformed, especially inside.

What to see in the Church of San Giovanni

On the side facade opens a 14th-century portico with small octagonal terracotta columns; the symbol of San Bernardino is stamped on the corner tiles. Other old traces are two simple single-light windows at the base of the bell tower, on the wall facing northeast. On the lower part of the right pier, next to the apse, a fragment of a fresco of the Crucifixion survives.

The interior looks different from the medieval one. The original roof trusses were replaced by a barrel vault in reed and plaster (camorcanna), divided by three large brick arches. The decoration consists of Neoclassical geometric patterns and small frescoed medallions with biblical prophets.

How to visit the Church of San Giovanni

The church is temporarily closed because of the earthquake damage and is unsafe: it can only be seen from the outside. A 520 thousand euro project is planned for its reconstruction. The Pievebovigliana area was hit hard by the 2016 earthquake. Before setting out, it is worth checking whether it has reopened.

Where the Church of San Giovanni is located

The church is in the locality of Isola, in Pievebovigliana, a hamlet of the municipality of Valfornace, in Le Marche.

Around the Church of San Giovanni in Valfornace

The municipality of Valfornace is also home to the Church of San Giusto in San Maroto, an 11th-12th century building with a central plan, four apses and a dome. It stands on a meadow overlooking Lago di Polverina and the Sibillini Mountains. It was restored after the 2016 earthquake.

In the center of the village is the Baroque Church of Rosario in Valfornace, built in the 17th century. Its high altar is framed by gilded columns. Other churches in the area are gathered on the page about the churches of the Sibillini Mountains.