📍 Where it is located

The Chiesa della Santissima Trinità is located at the top of the contrada omonima, a high and quiet area of the historic center of Ponte in Valtellina. It can be reached on foot by walking up a cobbled path, and the walk is worth it for the panoramic view of the village and the valley.

🕰 A bit of history

This small but charming church has ancient origins, probably late medieval, although there are no precise documents about the original building. What we know is that it was rebuilt at the end of the sixteenth century, thanks to the tenacity and faith of Father Defendente Quadrio, parish priest of Ponte since 1588.

During the rebuilding, something incredible happened: the walls and the vault collapsed on the priest. Those present believed him to be dead. However, he emerged alive and unscathed from the rubble, causing general astonishment and gratitude. From that moment on, Defendente dedicated himself even more passionately to the reconstruction of the church, which now bears the mark of his devotion.

A portrait of the priest is still visible in the lunette above the portal, next to a depiction of the Trinity and an inscription that recalls his death, which occurred on January 18, 1607.

🏛 Simple yet elegant architecture

The church has a gabled facade, plastered in ochre yellow, with a central oculus and a green stone portal engraved with the monogram IHS. The apse, still the original late medieval one, is made of exposed stone and is semi-circular, integrated into the current structure.

Inside, the space is compact but harmonious: a single nave with a barrel vault, smooth columns, and walls that hold little-known yet highly valuable artworks.

🎨 What to see

Inside you can find:

• Two polychrome papier-mâché statues depicting Saint Agnes and Mary Magdalene
• Two 18th-century wooden candleholder angels, inspired by Michelangelo's art
• An altar frontal with floral decorations on a black background
• A painting of the Trinity, framed by two plaster mirrors that create an engaging visual effect 

But the real treasure is hidden behind the altar, in the apse area: a cycle of frescoes from 1539 that depict six episodes from the New Testament. Although partially damaged, they stand out for the freshness of the colors still visible and the dynamism of the composition. The frescoes are attributed, by style, to the circle of Vincenzo De Barberis, a painter active in Valtellina during those years.

🧭 How to get there

• 🚗 By car: Park in the town center and walk for a few minutes along the village’s narrow streets.
• 🚶 On foot: from the central square of Ponte, follow the signs to the contrada della Trinità.

ℹ️ Useful information

• 📍 Address: Contrada SS. Trinità – Ponte in Valtellina (SO)
• 📅 Opening: the church is usually open during celebrations or guided tours.
• 📞 Contact info: Parish of San Maurizio

💬 Why visit it

The Chiesa della Santissima Trinità is a little-known gem, rich in spirituality, art, and history. It is also the protagonist of an event that locals still remember as a “miracle.” Climbing up here offers a moment of peace, beauty, and a true connection with the historical memory of Ponte in Valtellina.

If you are visiting the historic center, it is worth making a small detour to discover it.