Church of San Nicolao, Giornico

The Church of San Nicola (also Nicolao) was built in the 12th century. It stands in the middle of a vineyard on the right side of the Ticino in Giornico and is considered the most impressive example of Lombard Romanesque in Switzerland. The church is dedicated to Nicholas of Myra.
When and by whom San Nicola was built is not known. The year 1168 can be deciphered on an inscription on a stone slab above the main portal; the date could refer to the end of construction or to the consecration. The construction could be related to the (planned) opening of the Gotthardweg. In 1210 Giornico is mentioned as a monastery, but it is not known whether this refers to San Nicola. In 1298 Giornico belonged to the Cluniac Abbey of Fruttuaria near Turin.