Oratorio di Civo – A frescoed jewel in the Alps

A small church, a great artistic treasure

In the heart of the Cech Coast, among the meadows and woods that stretch above Morbegno, lies one of the most fascinating and lesser-known places in Valtellina: the Oratorio della Confraternita del Santissimo Sacramento di Civo, adjacent to the church of Sant' Andrea Apostolo.

Despite its small size, the oratory houses an extraordinary cycle of frescoes, considered one of the most interesting examples of sacred Lombard painting from the late 15th to the early 16th century.

🏛 History

The current church of Sant' Andrea Apostolo was rebuilt in Baroque style after a fire, but the ancient medieval apse, located behind it, was preserved. This space was designated as the oratory of the confraternity, transforming it into a small treasure chest of art.

The building is situated on a wide plateau between the village of Civo and the nearby alpine church of San Bernardo, in a panoramic position overlooking the mid-Valtellina.

🎨 The interior and frescoes

The oratory is accessed through a small door to the left of the main altar of the church. Inside, the space is completely decorated with frescoes attributed to painters of the Lombard school.

🖼 Key elements:

• Vaulted ceiling: divided into four sails, depicting:
  • The Coronation of Mary
  • The Assumption of the Virgin
  • The Four Doctors of the Church
• South wall (to the right upon entering): a detailed Nativity with Adoration of the Magi
• East wall (at the back): a Crucifixion rich in figures and details, with a particularly complex and engaging iconography
• North wall (to the left): Stories of Saint Andrew articulated in eight panels, with the Calling of Andrew at the Sea of Galilee portrayed in the lunette above

• Pointed arch: decorated with Theological and Cardinal Virtues, which bordered the ancient presbytery
   

  The frescoes, despite their age, are well-preserved and testify to the cultural and artistic vitality of the area during the Renaissance.

📍 Where it is located

📌 Civo, province of Sondrio
 The oratory is located next to the parish church of Sant' Andrea, accessible by car via the road that ascends from Morbegno towards the Cech Coast.

🚶‍♀️ Ideal also as a panoramic stop for a walk in the surroundings, among the trails that connect the historical villages of the area.

🕒 Visiting hours

The oratory is visitable upon request or during events, religious festivals, or special openings organized by the Municipality or local entities.

📞 For information and guided tours:

• Valgerola Tourist Office – Morbegno
• Parish of Civo
• Museums System of Valtellina

🎯 Why visit it

The Oratorio di Civo is perfect for those seeking:

• High-quality sacred art in rural settings
• An intimate place rich in spirituality
• A cultural trip in authentic Valtellina
• An excursion among villages, nature, and breathtaking views