Gravedona - S. Maria del Tiglio

It is believed, that this place was a "sacred ground" already in pagan times. Santa Maria del Tiglio (Tiglio = lime tree) was erected within the 11th or 12th century on foundations of a baptistry, dedicated to John the Baptist, that may date back to the 5th or 6th century.

This baptistery had been built on the plan of a "triconchos", it had three apses in clover-leaf shape (see: "Como - San Fedele").

Santa Maria del Tiglio was erected on the same design, it is as well a "triconchos". The facade of the church has some carvings, that seem the be older than 12th century. The deer hunting centaur is a frequent icon. Centaurs either hunt deers - or mermaids.