Discover Lauria: Churches, Sirino and Culture

Lauria offers several ways to explore the area: historic churches and their art, the Santuario della Madonna delle Armi with its views over the valley, and the mountain area of Sirino with Lago Laudemio. A historical and religious walk takes you to Lauria’s places of worship. If you’re looking for a hotel for your trip, these themes can help you decide in advance how you’d like to shape your stay.

Churches, Art and History

In the Chiesa di San Giacomo in the lower part of town, there is a carved wooden choir whose oldest section dates back to 1554. The history of its dedication goes back further: the church was originally dedicated to Saint Matthew. Between 1452 and 1482, Saint James became the patron saint. The church thus brings together a specific work of art and an earlier change in its religious dedication.

The Chiesa San Nicola di Bari offers a different focus. The oldest document in the church’s historical archive dates back to 1522. Three limestone portals dating from 1894 add further historical details. The vault of the central nave features tempera paintings of Saint Nicholas, the Last Supper and the Madonna and Child. The archival document, portals and paintings offer different points of interest if you’re interested in the history and design of the churches.

Lauria’s castle has an octagonal floor plan; traces of the side towers remain.

The Sanctuary and Views over the Noce Valley

The Santuario della Madonna delle Armi stands on a rock in a commanding position overlooking the Noce River valley. Its setting makes the view an integral part of the visit. Inside, the main altar holds a 19th-century canvas depicting the Assumption of Mary. If you’re planning your trip around scenery and an interest in art, the sanctuary offers a different focus from the churches in town.

Sirino, Lago Laudemio and Seasonal Activities

Lago Laudemio is a glacial lake in the Sirino mountains, above 1,500 metres and beyond Lauria. The Lauria area is associated with hiking in the milder seasons. In winter, Lauria’s ski area attracts fans of alpine skiing and cross-country skiing.

A Walk to the Places of Worship

In recent years, the “Piccolo Cammino di Santiago” has taken place on the Sunday before the festival. This historical and religious walk leads to Lauria’s places of worship. If you’d like to include the walk in your trip plans, check whether it is scheduled for your travel dates.

You can compare hotel offers based on what suits your reason for travelling, without assuming specific features of any individual accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Laurenzana, Banzi, Missanello, Trecchina, Avigliano, Castelluccio Superiore, Sarnelli, Nemoli

For the main travel overview: Potenza.