Torre di Orezia
A medieval tower immersed in the tranquility and silence of the small fortified village of Castello, where time seems to have stood still in an ancient and relaxing atmosphere.
What to see
The Torre di Orezia is the most precious and intact element of the ancient medieval fortified complex of Dervio. The History: Although the first written mention dates back to 1039 (when it withstood a fierce siege by the armies of the three Pievi lariane), the current structure originates from the late medieval fortifications erected to defend the ancient local communication routes. In 1939, it became the property of the Municipality of Dervio. The Architecture: It is a powerful keep with a square base built entirely of local stone. Its architectural peculiarity lies in the two historical entrances: a raised access portal on the first floor equipped with a trilith architrave (originally used for security reasons) and a second entrance uphill at ground level. The walls are still dotted with ancient defensive arrow slits. The Exhibition: Fully restored and reopened to the public, it houses the permanent photographic exhibition "From Hay to Cheese." The exhibition path tells the story of local peasant culture through historical tools and memories of the old dairy cooperative of Dervio.
⛪ Chiesa di San Leonardo: A Corner of Peace just five meters from the tower, overlooking the same timeless atmosphere, stands the charming Chiesa di San Leonardo. Foundation and History: Its existence has been officially documented since the 13th century, but its origins are considered even older (likely linked to the 12th century). During the 16th and 17th centuries, it underwent several Baroque renovations that softened its forms. Use: It is a subsidiary church of the parish of Saints Peter and Paul of Dervio. Originally intended to serve the rural community and the military garrison of the fortified village of Castello, it is now a small temple of silence and spirituality for residents and for walkers traversing the Sentiero del Viandante. What is particularly inside: The gabled façade is very simple, but crossing the threshold reveals two elements of historical and artistic significance: An ancient 16th-century fresco (albeit partially worn by time) depicting the Madonna with Child and San Giovannino. The precious main altarpiece portraying the Madonna with Child alongside San Leonardo and Sant'Antonio da Padova. Curiously, San Leonardo (patron of prisoners) is recognizable by his classic iconographic attributes, namely the stocks and chains.
Don't miss
- 1Dervio - Lungo LagoLago16
- 2Chiesa San Tommaso di CanterburyChiesa7
The Church of San Tommaso di Canterbury in Corenno Plinio (a hamlet of Dervio) is a captivating building of Romanesque origin from the 12th century, leaning against the walls of the medieval castle. It houses precious 14th-century frescoes and spectacular Gothic funerary monuments of the feudal Andreani family on its façade.
Getting there
From the village of Dervio (the "Villa" area), a steep and picturesque cobblestone path begins, winding its way between porticoes and ancient houses up to the hamlet of Castello.