Basilica of Saint Giacomo

The Basilica of Saint Giacomo in Bellagio

The church of Saint Giacomo stands in the Borgo neighbourhood of Bellagio, one of the most enchanting and picturesque in the whole lake Como area. Built by the Comacine masters between the 11th and 12th centuries, the basilica of Saint Giacomo is a fine example of the Como-Lombard Romanesque style. The church as it currently stands is the result of a series of modifications carried out over the course of the centuries. In particular, towards the mid-17th century, it was extensively altered and given a Baroque style transformation. Later, during the early twentieth century, work was carried out to restore the church to its original Romanesque form. It was subsequently declared a national monument.

The basilica of Saint Giacomo has a rectangular plan. Divided into three naves by semicircular arches, its broad vaults are supported by solid pillars. Its structure and columns are in Moltrasio limestone, while the capitols and bases of the columns are made of granodiorite rock taken from the erratic masses found in the lake Como area. The belltower, situated on the left-hand side of the church building, is thought to have been created by modifying an existing watchtower. The tower in its current form dates to the 17th century, although important restoration work was carried out in 1990. The belltower has five bells made by the Pruneri foundry of Sondrio.

The church itself contains a number of interesting works of art, the most important of which is a triptych partially attributed to Vincenzo Foppa (1427 - 1515), showing a Madonna of the Graces with Saints Roch and Sebastian. Meanwhile in the left nave hangs a Deposition of Christ from the school of Perugino (1448 - 1523). The sculpture of the Dead Christ is of Spanish origin and is said to have belonged to a garrison of Spanish soldiers stationed in the Pian di Spagna area. According to legend, following heavy rainfall, the river Adda burst its banks and the sculpture was washed into the lake, only to be subsequently recovered by local fishermen, who donated it to the church. The statue has for centuries been held in great veneration and each year is brought out for the traditional Easter Friday procession.