San Gaudenzio ruins

The pilgrimage church is mentioned in the Imperial Register and was already a popular destination for pilgrims in the time of Charlemagne. The current building was erected in 1518 in late Gothic style on the ruins of older buildings. When the Reformation reached Bregaglia, the Lutheran theologian Vergerio incited the population to desecrate the sacred building in 1551. The images and relics were destroyed and thrown into the Orlegna stream. The church was still used as a funeral church until 1738. Today you can see the sky from inside, as the roof no longer exists. The fascination that emanates from this place has been preserved.

According to tradition, Gaudenzio, to whom the church was dedicated, came to Bergell in the 4th century. It is not known exactly whether he came from this area or was born in Novara. In the valley, the saint began to preach and convert the pagans. However, opponents accused him of conspiring against the local authorities. They beat him, dragged him into a dense pine forest and finally cut off his head, probably near Casaccia. According to legend, the martyr picked up his head with both hands and walked another 180 meters to the place where his pilgrimage church is located today. San Gaudenzio was canonized by Pope Urban V (1261-1264) and named patron saint of the League of God's House in 1518.