- Art & Culture
- Villages
Castiglione Olona and the Collegiate Church Compound | Varese Convention & Visitors Bureau
The village of Castiglione Olona has ancient origins. It was a fortress in Roman times and later the village became the subject of a fierce dispute between the Visconti and Torriani families as they fought for years to gain control over the area around the banks of the River Olona.
Entering the village you'll step back in tiem: you can't miss the Church of the Most Holy Body of Christ, also known as the Villa Church, Palazzo Branda Castiglioni, remains of the door that once led into the ancient castle and the Collegiata church compound with the church and baptistery. The chruch was built in the Gothic-Lombard style with a Latin cross ground plan, and dedicated in 1425 to the Virgin Mary and to St. Stefano and St. Lawrence. Inside there are three naves and remarkable frescoes of the life of the Virgin Mary by Masolino da Panicale on the sides of the apse, which also features some frescoes of the Tuscan school.
The small museum of the Collegiata shows some precious sacred items and some important masterpieces.
If you're visiting the village during the summer don't miss the Palio dei Castelli that take place in Monteruzzo Castle, an event to remember the medieval times and history of Castiglione Olona and its inhabitants.
INFO OF BRANDA CASTIGLIONI MUSEUM
ADDRESS: Piazza Garibaldi - Castiglione Olona
OPENING HOURS: from oct to march: from Tuesday to Saturday 9.00 am - 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm Sunday 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm // from apr to sept: from Tuesday to Saturday 9.00 am - 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm Sunday and holidays 10.30 am - 12.30 pm and 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm
TICKETS: full price ticket € 3 // reduced price ticket € 2 (kids from 6 to 14 yo and groups of min 20 persons) // children under 6: free entry
The ticket includes the visit to MAP Museo Arte Plastica.
Dog of small size allowed if hold in arms, in compliance with the hygiene and public safety rules*
*Information by the Museum. For any other question please check the guidelines from the Museum
AROUND HERE:
Plan your stay and your experience in the land of the lakes.
