Description of the attraction
Pellizzano is a small town on the territory of the Italian ski resort Val di Sole, consisting of the communes of Pellizzano, Oniano, Termenago and Castello. In recent years, it has gained fame as a summer resort, which has contributed to the development of tourism infrastructure and an increase in population. In addition, traditional types of activity play a significant role in the city's economy - animal husbandry, commerce, timber industry and handicraft production.
Pellizzano and Onyano were founded in the era of Ancient Rome. The name of these communes comes from the Latin names Pellitius and Aunius - probably that was the name of the veterans of the Roman army, who received these lands in recognition of their military services. According to legend, the powerful Frankish emperor Charlemagne visited here in the Middle Ages - they say that he converted the local pagans and Jews to Christianity and built a church that still exists today. In fact, the first written records of Pellizzano date back to the early 13th century, referring to an important agricultural and livestock center in the valley. After the plague epidemic in 1347, many families from Lombardy came here to work in the iron mines of Val di Peio - this was the beginning of a long period of immigration. To this day, echoes of the Lombard speech are heard in the dialect of the local language.
One of the main religious attractions not only in Pellizzano, but in the entire Val di Sole valley is the Gothic-Renaissance church dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. This is exactly the church, which, according to legend, was built by Charlemagne, although it was first mentioned only in 1264. The current building, with its huge bell tower, is the result of several reconstructions that took place between 1470 and 1590. During those works, the ancient Romanesque structure was completely changed. Inside, the church is divided into three naves by means of numerous classical columns. Among the decorations, it is worth highlighting the chalice of 1524, painted with frescoes by Simone Baskenis, wall paintings by the brothers Giovanni and Battista Baskenis from the late 15th century, a fresco depicting the Madonna and Child with several saints by Cipriano Valors, four wooden altars from the 17-18th centuries and a painting by Carlo Pozzi. The small chapel of Canacci is decorated with wonderful stucco moldings. And also the wonderful Way of the Cross of Carl Enrici deserves attention.
Also worth a visit is Lake Caprioli in Fazzone, which has become one of the symbols of summer holidays in Val di Sole. This artificial lake was created in 1960 and today offers tourists many interesting routes, laid through the picturesque area at the foot of the highest peaks of Presanella.
