San Peder: The Millennial Heart of Castione della Presolana

There is a place, suspended on a rocky spur overlooking the Valley of the Mills, where time seems to have stopped. It is the Chiesetta di San Peder (San Pietro), a small architectural gem that represents the oldest testimony of faith and community throughout the territory of Castione.


A story spanning a thousand years

San Peder is not just a simple mountain chapel; it is considered the oldest church in the entire area. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, but it is in the heart of the Renaissance that it received its most beautiful attire.
  • The Architecture: It features a simple rectangular plan, typical of rural Romanesque structures, built with local stone to withstand the centuries and the weather of the altitude.

  • The Frescoes of 1580: The true treasure is kept inside. The walls are decorated with a cycle of frescoes dating back to the late 16th century. These paintings, depicting sacred scenes and saints dear to popular tradition, underwent meticulous restoration in 1974, which allowed the preservation of colors and details that would otherwise have been lost.


A ‘Lookout’ Position

The little church stands atop the cliff of the same name, San Peder. This location was no accident: in the past, its elevated position served as a visual landmark for those travelling along the paths through the valleys. Today, that same location offers hikers a breathtaking view: from here, the vista stretches from the deep canyons of the Valle dei Mulini to the imposing limestone walls of the Presolana.


Trail guide: how to reach San Peder

The walk to the little church is a refreshing experience, suitable for everyone (including families with children) and particularly charming in spring.

Starting point: The adventure begins in the hamlet of Rusio (921 m). It is a charming village where time seems to have stood still. You can leave your car in the large, convenient car park located at the entrance to the hamlet.


The route (CAI Trail 317/318):

The Mulattiera: From the car park, follow the signs for Valle dei Mulini. The path is initially flat and runs alongside the Borzo stream, passing over wooden bridges and through lush countryside.

The junction and the climb: After about 30 minutes, you will reach Colle della Forca (a picnic area perfect for a break). Here you will find the junction: follow the signs to the left for San Peder.

The final push: The path begins to climb gently through a fragrant woodland. After just 10 minutes of steady but easy climbing, you will emerge onto the grassy clearing where the little church stands.


Interesting fact: San Peder and the climbers

Beneath the feet of those visiting the church lies one of the most famous rock faces for sport climbing in the Bergamo area: the San Peder crag. Whilst the peace of the church reigns above, below climbers tackle no fewer than 28 routes of great continuity (ranging in difficulty from 5c to 8b). It is here that the famous route ‘Il Panettiere’ is located, a technical challenge that has seen internationally renowned champions put their skills to the test.

Mandatory Fields *

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