Parish Church of Diemoz

Introduction

The parish church of Diemoz, located in the municipality of Verrayes, in Valle d'Aosta, is a fascinating place of worship steeped in history, dedicated to Saint Martin. The first documented information dates back to the 12th century, when the parish of Diemoz was subordinate to the priory of Chambave. However, little is known of the original building, except that it was in very poor condition at the end of the 18th century. In 1798, the impresario Jacques-Antoine Majoli from Bussoleto was commissioned to design and direct the renovation work. The church was extended to the north, but the original façade and bell tower were retained. 

Description

A further significant transformation occurred in the early years of the 20th century. Between 1906 and 1907, the growing congregation of worshippers made an extension of the building necessary. To make room for the new project, the façade and portico were demolished, while the bell tower was rebuilt. The interior was embellished thanks to the work of the Geninazzi brothers from Melide (Lugano), who took care of the decorations, and the painter Giuseppe Stornone from Ivrea. The latter produced an extraordinary work on the sails of the dome, depicting prominent figures of the Valdostan faith: Blessed Innocent V Pope, Saint Anselm, Saint Jocund and Blessed Vuillerme de Léaval of Morgex. Stornone is also responsible for the painting of the high altar, which depicts St Martin together with Saints Grato and Jocondo.
The architecture of the church, although derived from a rather simple original building, reflects the historical changes and the growth of the community. The current structure is an example of how the religious and cultural context of the Valle d'Aosta has evolved, emphasising local artists and links with neighbouring territories such as Lombardy and Piedmont.
It is interesting to note that the bell tower, originally leaning against the façade, has maintained its strategic position despite the many transformations it has undergone. This architectural element represents an ideal bridge between past and present, preserving traces of the different eras. The interior decoration and paintings, on the other hand, make the church of Diemoz a small gallery of sacred art, a witness to local devotion and artistic tradition.
Visiting the parish church of Diemoz means immersing oneself in a place that tells centuries of history through its walls, its works and its discreet charm, typical of mountain churches. The landscape context of the municipality of Verrayes adds further value, making this church a destination of cultural and spiritual interest for those exploring the Valle d'Aosta.