Church of San Giovanni Battista of Casperia

The Church of San Giovanni Battista of Casperia is one of the main attractions of the medieval village. Located on the top of the village, this sixteenth-century church dominates the entire landscape of the town. A characteristic aspect is the 13th century Romanesque bell tower, easily recognizable for its structure and decorations, such as the mullioned windows and frescoes dating back to the 14th century. In 1934, the last loggia of the tower was modified to include an aqueduct tank, a functional element inserted into the historical context.

The building has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries. The first major intervention dates back to 1515, while the renovation of 1791 introduced Baroque style elements that can still be admired today.

Inside, the church has a three-nave plan. On the main altar stands an altarpiece from 1524, the work of Giacomo Santoro, known as Jacopo Siculo, which depicts the Baptism of Jesus. Below the main painting there are images of Jesus and the Apostles.

In the left nave there is a 16th century fresco representing the Madonna and Child, together with Sant’Antonio Abate and San Giuseppe. In the right nave, a canvas depicting San Martin frames an aedicule which houses a wooden statue of San Sebastian, created and painted in the 17th century.

Finally, inside the church there is an imposing organ, purchased by the community in 1600 on the occasion of the jubilee.