Pieve di San Donato in Polenta

Pieve di San Donato in Polenta is a Romanesque church near Bertinoro with a three-nave basilica layout that creates distinct spatial sections. Circular columns made of brick support the structure, their stone capitals featuring carved decorative details that guide your eye upward.

Documented records confirm the church existed by 911, establishing its roots in the early medieval period when the region was taking shape. The building has endured through various transformations while remaining a constant landmark for this area.

This church has been the spiritual heart of the Polenta community for centuries, shaping how local people understood their place in the world. Walking through its interior today, you sense the enduring connection between the sacred space and the rural landscape that surrounds it.

The building is easily approachable from outside and offers views of the surrounding countryside, making it a rewarding stop while exploring the area. Access is straightforward, though you should be prepared for the rural setting and local conditions that define the location.

A rare treasure here is a marble altar from the 7th century that was restored in 1960 and still stands as the spiritual center of the interior. Few visitors realize how ancient this piece truly is compared to the church walls surrounding it.

Location: Bertinoro

Inception: 19 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Address: via Polenta 477 ‒ Polenta ‒ Bertinoro (FC)

GPS coordinates: 44.11781,12.13236

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:54