Church of San Lorenzo Martire (Ascoli Piceno)

History of the Church of San Lorenzo Martire

The history of the church goes hand in hand with that of Castel Trosino. Benedictine monks are known to have been present in the village, where they owned several properties, as early as 940. Emperor Lothair II later also gave the monastery of San Lorenzo to Bishop Presbitero.

The parish church was rebuilt in 1855-58. The 19th-century building is set at right angles to the old church and kept the old bell tower up to half its height. The tower was later raised again after the 1943 earthquake.

What to see in the Church of San Lorenzo Martire

The most recognizable feature is the bell tower, in the typical style of the area, which dominates the top of the village. The church is considered of significant historic and artistic interest, partly because of its position on the spur.

Post-earthquake repair work involved both the building and the bell tower. The roof was waterproofed, the reed-and-plaster (cannucciato) vaults were consolidated, and the flooring, heating system and plaster were redone. Metal chains and tie rods were inserted into the bell tower.

Visiting the Church of San Lorenzo Martire

Castel Trosino can only be entered on foot or by bicycle. Cars are left in a parking lot before the entrance to the village; from there, go through the arch in the walls and follow the main street to the small main square.

In recent years the church has undergone post-earthquake work: it is worth checking before setting off that it is open. Opening hours and contact details are in the information box on this page.

Where the Church of San Lorenzo Martire is

The church is in Castel Trosino, in the municipality of Ascoli Piceno. The village sits on a travertine cliff at about 419 m above sea level, above the valley of the Castellano river. The church is at the highest point of the village and faces the small main square.

Around the Church of San Lorenzo Martire

On the same square is the Casa della Regina, also called Casa di Re Manfrì, linked to the tradition of a stay by Manfred of Swabia (Manfredi di Svevia). Not far away is the Lombard necropolis, reached by a short path through the woods. Lower down flows the Castellano, with the Cascatelle di Castel Trosino (small waterfalls). Other sights in the city are on the page about things to do in Ascoli Piceno.