Chiesa di San Rocco
A splendid 19th-century church perched at 484m on the Sentiero del Viandante. A breathtaking panoramic balcony with a complete view of Lake Como.
What to see
**Oratory of San Rocco in Dorio (484 m)**
Welcome to one of the most spectacular and beloved panoramic balconies along the entire Path of the Wanderer. This little church, suspended between the blue of Lake Como and the rock of the mountain, holds a deep story tied to the faith and resilience of the local community.
📜 **The history and the cholera vow**
**The origins (1848):** the building was established in the mid-nineteenth century as a small rural oratory, characterized by the simple lines typical of mountain religious architecture.
**The epidemic of 1855:** in the summer of 1855, a violent cholera epidemic struck the towns along the Lario. The inhabitants of Dorio climbed up here to invoke the protection of San Rocco, traditionally venerated as the protector against plagues.
**The vow and the promise (1856):** when the contagion ceased, the population kept the promise made to the Saint. The oratory was officially dedicated to San Rocco, and the surrounding area became, for a time, a burial place for the victims of the epidemic.
🎨 **What it holds**
**The frescoes:** inside you can admire two altar pieces frescoed in 1860 by the renowned painter from Valsassina, Giovanni Maria Tagliaferri of Pagnona. The works depict San Rocco and Saint Anthony of Padua.
**A devotion still alive:** the bond of the people of Dorio with San Rocco continued even during the Covid emergency. The community once again invoked his protection through a novena of prayer, and at the end of the nine days, the bell of the oratory was rung.
Every year, on August 16th, the inhabitants of Dorio ascend in procession to this clearing to celebrate Mass, renew the historic vow, and celebrate together with the Alpini.
Getting there
From the Dorio station, walk up past the ancient village of Mandonìco and follow the steep path through the woods: in about 45 minutes of steady walking, you will reach the panoramic churchyard. Free and paid parking available.
Stage 4 (Dervio - Colico) of the Sentiero del Viandante: the little church is located halfway along the route and is the perfect resting point to relax while admiring the lake.