The church, as we see it today, is the result of a series of expansions, elevations, and renovations that took place over the centuries. Prior to the 15th century, it was one of the wealthiest in the area and possessed an important heritage.
Dedicated to Saint James the Greater, apostle of Jesus, inside it preserves a true pictorial palimpsest. The Last Supper on the left wall can be dated to around the mid-15th century (1450) by the Master of San Donato di Lentiai, while the main theme depicts "The Life and Miracle of Saint James the Greater,” taken from the Golden Legend, created by the brothers Giovanni and Marco da Mel in 1520/1530 and by Lorenzo Paulitti in 1560.
Although about half of the original pictorial material survives, the work conveys a naturalistic attention and a certainty of graphic sign from the Master.
The “candelabra” pillars of a false loggia illusorily support a refined frieze below the beam with grotesques, regularly interrupted by clipei with busts of saints, and rest on a continuous base where a faux upholstery of white and red stripes is simulated, which traditionally adorned the interiors.
A valuable example of early 18th-century altar furniture is the wooden reredos and the frame of the altar frontal, where one can observe the small sculpted figures on the uprights, a rustic interpretation of the patron saints of the church.
In 1926, an important restoration was carried out, commemorated by the date placed on the facade. The frescoes were restored in 1963, while the forecourt was renovated in 1992.
The church is accessible on sunny days, and you can contact the nearby Osteria Col De Rù if needed.
