Church of San Lorenzo (Visso)

History of the Church of San Lorenzo

The church was built on the top of the hill where the castle of Riofreddo stood. The castle controlled a crossroads and, protected by the cliffs, was hard to attack. In 1535, during a thorough restoration, the date and the rampant lion of Norcia were carved into the jamb of the portal.

During the 16th century the bell gable and the front were rebuilt. The original floor was replaced and the ossuaries below were enlarged.

The strong earthquakes of September 26, 1997 caused damage and cracks throughout most of the structure. On August 6, 1999 the Conferenza di Servizi (the joint planning board) approved the project to repair, restore and rebuild the damaged parts.

What to see in the Church of San Lorenzo

The building is a single-hall church, built along a northeast-southwest axis. The bell gable is on the left side of the front. Behind the hall is the sacristy, reached from the presbytery.

On the outside, the portal with the rampant lion, the coat of arms of Norcia, carved in 1535, is worth a look. Beneath the church are the ossuaries, enlarged in the 16th century.

How to visit the Church of San Lorenzo

After the 1997 earthquake the church remained closed for a long time, even after restoration. Before traveling to Riofreddo, it is advisable to ask the Comune di Visso (town hall) for information.

Where the Church of San Lorenzo is located

The church stands in Riofreddo, in the municipality of Visso, in the province of Macerata. Riofreddo is one of the hamlets farthest from the main town. The building occupies the highest point of the village.

Around the Church of San Lorenzo in Visso

Riofreddo preserves the layout of an old castle, built in a commanding position over a crossroads. For other places of worship in the area, see the page on the churches of the Sibillini Mountains.