San Giovanni Battista

San Giovanni Battista is a Romanesque church in Riomaggiore built from grey stone with rounded arches and sturdy proportions. The building displays the straightforward, powerful forms typical of this architectural style, with minimal decorative detail on its exterior walls.

The church was founded in 1340 and has served as a central place of worship in Riomaggiore ever since. It has endured through centuries of changes in the village while remaining an anchor point for the community.

The church hosts religious celebrations and community gatherings where locals mark important occasions throughout the year. It remains a focal point for Catholic traditions and personal milestones in the village's social life.

The church sits at an elevated point of the village and can be reached by walking up the main street from the waterfront. The climb is steep, but the location offers good views over the village and surrounding area.

The grey stone facade stands out sharply against the colorful residential buildings that define the village character. This visual contrast makes the church a striking landmark when walking through Riomaggiore's narrow streets.

Location: Riomaggiore

Inception: 1340

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 44.10038,9.73982

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:27