pieve di scalve

Church Pieve di Scalve

As early as the 12th century, this small church surrounded by greenery—officially dedicated to Saint Peter—served as the Pieve of Scalve.

Parish churches (Pievi) were the only churches, apart from the cathedral, where sacraments could be administered, and they were typically located in villages far from major urban centers. At the time, this Pieve was the main reference point for the entire Scalve area, which then included, in addition to the four municipalities, also the territory of Valbondione.

The Pieve of Scalve was not only a place of worship, but also a key center for the civil life of the community. Representatives of the “vicinie” (groups of families) gathered here to discuss decisions regarding the organization of the Scalve community. For example, the construction of the Palazzo Pretorio was decided here.

Due to conflicts arising from the presence of multiple parishes—each aligned with different political orientations—at the beginning of the 18th century it was decided to demolish the ancient Pieve and the old Church of Santa Maria. The new Pieve corresponds to the current parish church of Vilminore di Scalve, which is in fact dedicated to both Saint Peter and Saint Mary Assumed into Heaven.
In memory of the ancient church, a stone column (red serizzo) remains at the foot of the staircase of the current building.
On the same site, in 1785, Don Francesco Albricci had a new place of worship built in memory of those who died during the plague of 1630.

In 1981, local groups from the AVIS and AIDO associations requested—and obtained—the management of the small church as a meeting place; for this reason, it is now also known as the “Temple of the Donor”.

In addition to being a place rich in history, a მშვიდ and pleasant picnic area can be found nearby, ideal for spending relaxing afternoons in complete tranquility.