Camaiore is perhaps the most important part of Versilia, where religious architecture is concerned. The Via Francigena, which cuts through the region after having completed it’s journey through Luni, has a lot to do with the vast quantity and magnificent quality of the architectural constructions of the region. The abbey of San Pietro, situated between the ancient diocese of Lucca and Luni, is an excellent example. Founded in the 8th century by Benedictine monks, the chapel is the only part that remains of the old monastery. The Romanesque features of the basilica, with it’s three main aisles, it’s square and arched columns, the apse and the lower part of the façade are all beautifully conserved. Inside the building lies the Madonna della Pieta, a figure of the Virgin Mary dating back to the 14th century and a fresco featuring the Santa Maria Egiziaca.
The historic centre of Camaiore gives rise to the church of Santa Maria Assunta, which was first mentioned by historians in 1260. It still retains it’s 13th century structure, with it’s austere asymmetrical façade, it’s 1350 bell tower and it’s central rose window dating back to the 14th century. In the 15th century, a cupola was added to the building, which then suffered damages due to an earthquake in 1336. The cupola was rebuilt in the 18th century, along with the apse and the side chapels. The baroque interior features three naves separated by Romanesque columns.
The church of Santi Stefano and Giovanni Battista can be found on the road that leads to Lucca. The actual building dates back the 8th century, albeit the roman-lucchese style. Aside from traces of the old walls on the left side of the building and an ancient double-doored portal divided in the centre, not much of the original structure remains. Next to the apse is a square bell tower, where light falls through from four twin-lancet windows set along the back wall. The layout of the interior comprises three naves divided by rectangular columns that create pointed arches. The font is positioned to the right of the main entrance, an ancient and valuable roman 6th century sarcophagus made of marble.

Photos © www.fototoscana.it