Circular route via the Chiesa Nera

The route starts at the church in the village of Pieve. A car park is accessible near the church via a very narrow street, on the left after the fountain when coming from Rapale. Alternatively, park at the side of the road, taking care not to obstruct traffic.

(S/E) The route starts via a path at the end of the car park to the right of the church (when facing the church).
The path climbs gently up the hillside. It is in the shade quite early in the morning, and partly in the shade in the late afternoon. After half an hour’s climb, the path joins a track. Turn right onto this track and follow it for 100 metres to reach the remains of the chapel.

(1) Watch out for holes in the chapel floor. Turn back and take the track for the descent. Continue along this track for two hairpin bends. After about 45 minutes’ descent along this track, a path branches off to the left, marked^PR®. A sign points towards Pieve.

(2) Take this path, which runs alongside a tiny stream and leads out behind the village cemetery. Carry on straight ahead to reach the church. (S/E)

Fountain on the main road, below the church.
A bar opposite the fountain.

Menhirs in front of the church.
Church and bell tower.
Romanesque chapel built of chlorite (green stone, like that of the Pisan church of San Michele de Murato). The chapel was probably part of a series of chapels erected for pilgrims, possibly linked to the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
A typical village in the Pieve area.