The Church of Saints Cornelius and Cyprian, located in an elevated position above the centre of the village of Borgoratto Mormorolo, represents an important historical and architectural testimony. This sacred building, which today serves as the parish church, stands along the road leading to the hamlets of Inveriaghi, Costa Cavalieri and Valverde, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
A Dive into History
The origins of the church date back to the early Middle Ages, when it was known as Memoriola. Archaeological excavations have uncovered finds that confirm the antiquity of the site, including traces of structures dating back to this period. The presence of a small white marble head, walled into one side of the bell tower, is a fascinating fragment of the site‘s Roman past.
Romanesque Architecture and its Restoration
Over the centuries, the church has undergone various restorations that, although they have modified some of the original elements, have preserved important evidence of its Romanesque architecture. The west-facing façade features a combination of plaster and exposed stone, with the upper half plastered and the lower half characterised by square stone blocks. Corner pilasters and a rectilinear plaster cornice add elegance to the structure.
The late Romanesque portal, with its round arch, is embellished with 13th-century pseudo-Corinthian capitals. Above the portal, a decorated rose window and a notched triangular tympanum complete the façade, giving it a solemn and harmonious appearance.
The Bell Tower: A Symbol of Excellence
The bell tower, located on the left side of the nave, near the apsidal area, is distinguished by its square cross-section and its division into unequal sections, highlighted by thin cornices. The single-lancet windows of the belfry allow light to filter in, creating shadowy effects inside the tower. The onion-shaped spire, clad in copper, adds a touch of elegance and distinction to the structure.
The Church of Saints Cornelius and Cyprian is not only a place of worship, but also a monument that tells the story of a community through the centuries. Its architectural elements, the restorations that have preserved its beauty and the historical artefacts from its past make this church a place of great cultural and spiritual interest. Anyone who visits it cannot fail to be fascinated by its imposing beauty and the richness of its history.
