In Castelletto, near Vernasca in Val d’Arda, a place once called “Valtolla” presents the ancient church of Sant’Andrea, the oldest in the valley. It is an unknown jewel in a unique environment. Tthis is the last example of cultic building from the most splendid period of the Val di Tolla abbey in year 1000.
The association “Amici dell’antica chiesa” currently counts about 600 members from around the world and over the past few years has managed to restore the ancient building with its perimetral walls, the remains of the vicarage, the main altar and the bell tower. With the funds from the municipality, banks and private donors (often former inhabitants of Castelletto village now living abroad), the association could save this marvellous monument and surround it with a park, a fountain and benches.
The restoration works transformed the church into a chapel for the cult dedicated to the ancient patron Sant’Andrea and Madonna delle Grazie.
