Embark on a self-guided tour of an ancient church that is noted for its paintings, frescoes and striking exterior.
The Madonna di Campagna Church is a beautiful Renaissance-style building that dates back to the 16th century. Put it on your Lake Maggiore travel itinerary for its spectacular works of art and striking architecture.
Study the building's exterior appearance, including the octagonal lantern tower which is surrounded by columns and arches. There is also an 11th-century bell tower that was part of an earlier Romanesque church that once occupied this site.
Walk through the ancient church's three naves decorated with centuries-old paintings. Inside the Chapel of the Madonna delle Grazie examine the Virgin Breastfeeding the Christ Child, a 14th-century fresco that belonged to the earlier church. This chapel also features paintings by Camillo Procaccini, an Italian painter who worked in the late 16th century and early 17th century. Visit the Chapels of St. Lawrence and St. Bernard for more picturesque artworks. These include frescoes that depict episodes from the lives of the two saints.
Look up inside the magnificent dome which is adorned with frescoes by Giulio Cesare Luini, a 16th-century Italian painter. Appreciate the elaborate detailing of the fresco in the apse. It is a celebration of the life of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy the church's many other artistic touches such as the carved wooden choir from 1582, the Baroque pulpit and a lectern featuring carved symbols of the gospel writers from the Bible's New Testament.
After your exploration of the church, take a look around its grounds to discover an early 17th-century building that used to be a seminary and an ossuary from the 18th century.
If you are in the Lake Maggiore region during summer, visit the church for concert performances. These concerts form part of the annual Stresa Festival, an international celebration of classical music.
Reach the Madonna di Campagna Church by a short taxi ride from the center of Pallanza. Or drive and park on the street just outside the church.
