Celebrated for its Romanesque architecture, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta (St Mary of the Assumption) has stood proud in the village of Armeno, on the western side of Lake Orta since the 11th century. Its most striking feature is perhaps its façade, which features classic medieval symbols including columns and capitals. The bell tower which stands to the left of the church dates back to the second half of the 12th century and is quite imposing. Inside the church there are several fascinating frescoes and an impressive Baroque style wooden altar, and a wander around this quaint church will indefinitely lead to distraction. What’s more, its surroundings are just as appealing with chapels of the Via Crucis (stations of the cross) and a open church square in front; previously a cemetery, with a traditionally fashioned iron gate. The village of Armeno itself is indeed worth a visit, with several opportunities for scenic walks and surrounding attractions which similarly characterize its historical importance.
