San Donato

San Donato is a Romanesque church in the historic center of Civita di Bagnoregio with a Renaissance facade and a distinctive bell tower. The structure sits on a high plateau surrounded by eroded valleys, making it visible from far away.

The church was originally built in the 5th century and served as the seat of the Diocese of Bagnoregio for centuries. The 1695 earthquake caused major damage, prompting the bishop to move his residence and functions to the nearby town below.

The bell tower holds two Etruscan sarcophagi, showing how this place merges ancient burial practices with Christian worship in a single structure. Visitors notice this blend of old and new when they observe the tower during their visit.

Visitors reach the church by walking across a narrow footbridge connecting the isolated hilltop to the valley below, which takes only a few minutes. The path is steep in places and can be slippery after rain, so comfortable walking shoes are helpful.

An interior wooden crucifix displays Christ in three different states depending on the viewing angle: alive from the front, dying from the left side, and deceased from the right. This work from the Donatello school is a remarkable example of a single sculpture conveying multiple spiritual moments.

Location: Bagnoregio

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Part of: chiesa parrocchiale di San Donato e Sagrestia

Website: http://parrocchie.it/civita/sandonato

GPS coordinates: 42.62781,12.11400

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:56