The Historic Churches of Montagna: Two Gems of Faith and Art
In the heart of the Lower Adige Valley, within the municipality of Montagna, stand two churches that tell centuries of history and spirituality: the Church of St. Bartholomew and the Church of St. Stephen in Pinzano. Both mentioned as early as the 12th century, they still preserve remarkable architectural and artistic elements today.
The Church of St. Bartholomew
Located along the main street of the village, the Church of St. Bartholomew stands out for its impressive Neo-Romanesque façade, dating from the late 19th century. The current building was erected starting in 1875, but an older church had already stood on the same site, recorded in documents as early as the 12th–13th centuries.
From the original Romanesque structure, only the bell tower remains, rising beside the new church like a bridge between past and present. The architectural ensemble blends harmoniously with the village landscape, while maintaining a strong identity thanks to its sober yet majestic style.
The Church of St. Stephen in Pinzano
Moving on to the hamlet of Pinzano, one encounters another treasure of faith and art: the Church of St. Stephen, also of Romanesque origin. Built around 1200, it was modified in the 15th century with the addition of Gothic elements that emphasize its verticality and architectural grace.
But its true wonder lies inside: the magnificent altarpiece triptych created by the Austrian sculptor Hans Klocker in the 15th century. The work, considered one of the finest in South Tyrol, depicts St. Stephen, the church’s patron saint, beside the Madonna and Child.
Did You Know?
Hans Klocker, active between Bolzano and Bressanone, was one of the leading masters of late Gothic sculpture in the Alpine region. His works are renowned for their elegance of form and delicacy of detail—and the Pinzano triptych is a perfect example of his refined artistry.
A Sound Masterpiece: The 18th-Century Wörle Organ
In addition to the famous altarpiece, the Church of St. Stephen in Pinzano houses another artistic treasure: the precious Baroque organ built by Anton Wörle in the 18th century. Crafted around 1770, the instrument is one of the most fascinating examples of South Tyrolean organ-making.
The organ is renowned for its warm, enveloping sound, perfectly matching the church’s intimate atmosphere. Even today, during concerts and celebrations, the Wörle organ enchants listeners, keeping the sacred musical tradition alive and enhancing the spiritual beauty of this unique place.
A Small Art Itinerary in the Lower Adige Valley
Visiting the churches of Montagna and Pinzano reveals hidden corners of beauty, rich in meaning and history. From Romanesque remnants to Gothic sculpture, every detail reflects the devotion of the local community and the refined skill of the artists who worked here. An ideal itinerary for those who love tranquility, art, and the silent dialogue between past and present.