Pievi of La Spezia: Pieve di Marinasco, Pieve di San Venerio.

THE PIEVI OF LA SPEZIA

The church of Santo Stefano Protomatire in Marinasco
First mentioned in 950, the church in Marinasco is positioned in one of the most privileged spots in the Spezian Gulf. The current construction retains no trace of its original structure. Its appearance is predominantly gothic, although it is possible to discern a certain Romanesque influence. The oldest part only dates back to the 13th century, and the most important reconstruction works took place in the 15th and 18th centuries. A large part of the reconstruction works were necessary due to the fact that the church is positioned in a geographically precarious location. Between 1780 and 1784, a new bell tower was built in order to strengthen the structure of the building. Unfortunately, the buildings fa�ade was demolished as a result of this new construction.
The main bulk of the building is made of sandstone, although marble has been used in certain areas. The southern most entrance consists of a pointed arched doorway, flanked on either side by two ornate brackets. The one on the left is sculpted in the form of a beast, whilst the one of the right depicts Agnus Dei being threatened by another beast. Just inside the entrance is a stoup dating back to 1436.
The interior of the church is divided into three aisles. The original structure of the building featured three apses, of which the central one has now been converted into a vestibule with a pointed ceiling. The main altar is among one of the most precious works of art housed in the church. Decorated in the baroque style, it features brank-ursine tufts and winged puttos. The church also boasts a 14th century copy of Giovanni Pisano�s Madonna con Bambino. The original is now housed in the Diocesano della Spezia Museum. The organ is an 1822 Serassi.

The church of San Venerio
This church is located in Migliarina and is dedicated to San Venerio, a monk who lived life as a hermit and who died on the Island of Tino towards the start of the 7th century. The sacred building dates back to the roman times, and was probably built in 1084 by the Lords of Vezzano, over the remains of a late roman, paleochristian building.
The crescent-arched doorway is set into a glorious fa�ade, mounted with a gothic twin-lancet window, pointed arches and a leafed capital. It is probable that the bell tower was originally separate building, and was only later incorporated into the main body of the church. It is adorned with little rectangular ashlars and the highest part is decorated with angular pilasters and hanging fired brick arches.
The interior features a single aisle and is simple and austere, which is typical of most roman churches.

Churches of La Spezia

Pieve di Marinasco

THE PIEVI OF LA SPEZIA

Sleeping and eating in La Spezia

What to visit in La Spezia