Santa Maria Assunta a Cellole, Romanesque parish church in Pancole, Italy
Santa Maria Assunta a Cellole is a Romanesque parish church near Pancole with three naves and double-arched structures characteristic of the style. The interior space concludes with a semicircular apse, a typical feature of Romanesque design.
The church was first recorded in the 11th century and received its consecration in 1238, as shown by an inscription on its facade. This formal blessing marked an important moment for the community and showed its growing stability.
The church served pilgrims traveling to Rome during the Middle Ages, offering shelter and prayer along their journey. You can still feel how the simple design reflected the spiritual needs of travelers passing through this region.
The church sits along the Via Francigena pilgrimage route and is easily reached from walking paths between San Gimignano and Valdelsa. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain in this area is hilly with some unpaved stretches.
A stone-carved human head decorates the exterior wall next to the consecration inscription, giving the building an unusual personal touch. This carved detail is rarely seen on similar churches in the region and adds character to the simple Romanesque design.
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