The parish church dedicated to Saint James the Apostle is at the heart of Bordolano’s spiritual and social life.
The exact date of its construction is unknown; however, according to the historian Giovanni Battista Penna, a church already existed here as early as 964. At that time, the Bishop of Cremona granted it the official titles of parish, provost, baptistery, and plebian church.
The original building was likely simple and lacking in significant architectural ornamentation.
The church’s current appearance results from a major renovation that began in the late 19th century and was completed in 1905. The final decoration phase was led by the artist Francesco Rossi, who created the splendid painted interiors.
Upon entering, visitors are immediately struck by the richness of the church’s artistic layers, which have accumulated over time through popular devotion and the generosity of local families.
The church features a single nave over thirty meters long, flanked by richly adorned side chapels.
One of the most valuable works is in the first arch on the right: a 16th-century painting of the Madonna and Child with Saints John the Baptist, Agatha, and Fermo, framed by a magnificent wooden altarpiece.
Further along, in the third arch, is a refined painting from the Church of Saint John the Beheaded: the Madonna and Child with Saints Joseph and Anthony of Padua.
Even more remarkable is the Pietà by Vincenzo Campi, located in the fifth arch—an authentic masterpiece from around 1570, in which the Cremonese painter demonstrates exceptional expressive maturity.
The apse, the artistic and liturgical heart of the church, holds a canvas framed by elegant stucco work. On the counter-façade, another critical piece is displayed: the Holy Family, a gift from the Zaccaria family.
The baptismal font, made of red Verona marble dating to the 18th century, is of special historical and symbolic significance.
The bell tower, which predates the 18th century, completes the evocative profile of the church complex.
Every year on July 25th, the community celebrates the feast of Saint James the Apostle. It is a cherished occasion when the village comes alive with religious services, festive meals, and events that unite the entire community—joyfully renewing traditions and deep local bonds.
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