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What to expect
Hermitage of San Zeno in Ceriano d'Intelvi
The Hermitage of San Zeno , located on the suggestive peak of the same name near Lake Como , represents a historical and spiritual jewel in the heart of the Intelvi Valley , in the province of Como.
Its fascinating history dates back to before the year 1000, when it was built by Comacine masters from the valley, previously engaged in the works on the basilica of San Zeno in Verona.
Their return journey was marked by a storm off Bellagio , but, having escaped the danger, they decided to erect a sacred place in honor of San Zeno.
The hermitage, the oldest sacred building in the valley, became over the centuries a place of intense devotion for the surrounding populations.
However, in 1956, it was struck by lightning, causing the roof and bell tower to collapse. In 1996, the "Pro San Zeno Committee - a church for the 3rd Millennium" started an ambitious reconstruction project, returning this precious place of worship to the community.
To reach the hermitage of San Zeno, you can follow an easy trail that begins in Pian d'Alpe , near the picnic area. The small church is already visible at the top of the hill, a striking sight that accompanies the walk.
The itinerary begins by descending through the meadow along the fence of a private property and continues along a dirt track.
A signpost indicates the direction for San Zeno , while the deviation to the right leads to Sasso Gordona, another panoramic peak of notable interest.
The path, immersed in the woods, is dotted with a via crucis made up of wooden crosses made with railway sleepers, a work carried out by the Alpini of the valley.
After the ninth station, the route steepens, finally leading to the foot of the hermitage of San Zeno. From its privileged position behind the little church, a spectacular view of Lake Como opens up , with the center of the lake, Comacina Island , and the Lavedo peninsula in the foreground. The return journey follows the same route.
The hike to the Hermitage of San Zeno is approximately 4 km round trip, with a total duration of 1-1,30 hours and an altitude difference of approximately 180 metres.
This trail offers not only a spiritual experience, but also the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Intelvi Valley and enjoy breathtaking views of the picturesque Lake Como.
Type of place
Location
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Cerano d'Intelvi, Como, Italy
How to get there
Hermitage of San Zeno: how to get there
To reach the charming town of Pian d'Alpe, the starting point for the San Zeno Hermitage in Ceriano d'Intelvi near Lake Como, carefully follow the following road directions.
From the A9 motorway, take the Lago di Como exit and follow the clear signs for Menaggio. Take the SS340, known as Strada Statale Regina, until you reach Argegno.
Here, turn left towards Val d'Intelvi. Once in Castiglione d'Intelvi, take the road on the left that leads to Cerano and Schignano, following the SP15. At the next crossroads, continue towards Erbonne.
Cross the characteristic center of Casasco, paying attention to the narrow mountain road, and continue steadily in the direction of Erbonne until you reach the charming town of Pian d'Alpe.
Once you reach Pian d'Alpe, you can park along the road near the sign for Cerano d'Intelvi , opposite a picnic area. From this point, the trailhead for the Hermitage of San Zeno is easily accessible, offering a route immersed in nature and rich in historical and spiritual significance.
Around Pian d'Alpe, we recommend exploring the area further. Continuing to the end of the road, you'll reach Erbonne , a small town where you can visit the Guardia di Finanza and Smuggling Museum.
Furthermore, from Erbonne , you can embark on an adventure to discover Monte Generoso , enriching the experience with interesting cultural and landscape opportunities.
