Complex of San Pietro al Monte

The Benedictine complex of S. Pietro al Monte in Civate is a veritable architectural, artistic, and religious gem of the Lecco area and is located on Monte Cornizzolo, 662 metres above sea level.

This extraordinary Romanesque site consists of three buildings: the Basilica of San Pietro, the Oratory of San Benedetto and the ruins of the monastery. The motto “Ora et Labora” (Pray and Work) inscribed on the two stone portals bears witness to the Benedictine monks of the past.

Inside the basilica, there is an impressive cycle of frescoes of exceptional artistic value, probably dating back to the late 11th and early 12th centuries. This masterpiece is considered to be one of the most important and best-preserved sites of Lombard Romanesque art.

Since 2016, the complex of San Pietro al Monte has been included in the UNESCO Tentative List as a World Heritage Site, one of the serial properties making up “The cultural landscape of the Benedictine settlements in medieval Italy”.

It is an hour’s walk from Civate along a cobblestone path through woods. Although the climb is quite steep, the view is certainly worth the effort: from here you can admire spectacular views of Lake Annone, Monte Barro and Resegone. The complex is surrounded by meadows where you can relax after the walk, while more experienced hikers can take the path to the top of Cornizzolo.

Majestic, peaceful and tranquil, San Pietro al Monte in Civate is much more than just a day trip: it is a journey back in time steeped in spirituality.