An architectural gem of the Modena Apennines. It dates back to 1068, and is also known as the Church of the Devil.
The Oratory of St Blaise is situated near Roncoscaglia, an outlying hamlet of Sestola. It stands in a quiet and isolated position along the road that leads from the hamlet of Roncoscaglia to Castellaro. From the oratory there is a splendid view of the village of Sestola in the distance.
It is known as the ‘Church of the Devil’ perhaps because of the numerous sandstone animal sculptures that can still be admired today, which suggest that it was once a pagan building, later converted to Christian worship.
The church had already been partially restored several times over the years; however, in 1733, because it was at risk of collapse, the rector Don Antonio Marchioni had two-thirds of it (on the eastern side) demolished; this reduction in size is still remembered to this day, by an inscription which can be read on one of the outer walls: MDCCXXXIII D.A.M.R. (1733 Don Antonio Marchioni Rector).
Getting there
It is easily reached by car, and it is possible to park near the church, or, if you wish to discover more of the area, you can reach it on foot by taking one of the trails which will lead you there. Public pathway no. 5 starts in Sestola and leads to the oratory.