Pietralunga

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Pieve de’ Saddi (The church of the Saddi)

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It is the most ancient church in the diocese rising at about 15 minutes' drive far from Pietralunga. It is a typical example of Pre- Christian basilica. The structure, firmly tied to the ground, was built on a crypta, in reduced dimensions compared with the upper level, but in complete harmony with the whole structure. The crypta, where the tomb of Saint Crescenziano was once placed, can be reached by going down a narrow flight of stairs. According to the legend St. Crescenziano, fleeing from the persecution of Diocletian (in 244-311 AD), was martyred in the Saddi area for preaching the Christian faith. Inside the church, on the left wall, a bas-relief depicting St. Crescenziano slaying the dragon is placed. The church is dominated by a tower of the IX century that, despite lacking the original battlements, rises high and mighty over the valley. Inside the donjon, that presents an extremely elegant design, there is a sort of hallway dating to the XVth century, with small vaults supported by shelves. From there a flight of stairs starts and is dominated, at the top, by the Vitelli family chromed majolica coat of arms dating back to 1521.
A distinct touch to the whole structure is given by a Guelph window, from where it is narrated that bishops used to look out to bless the people that gathered at the Saddi during the Patron Saint Festival.