Restoration of the Church of Saints Nazaro and Celso
Year: 2011-2012
Location: Garbagnate Monastero (LC)
The Church of SS. Nazaro and Celso in Garbagnate Monastero, a Romanesque gem dating back to the 11th century, has regained its beauty thanks to a meticulous restoration involving the external walls and entrance doors.
Constructed from pietra molera, a material both fascinating and delicate, the church faced advanced degradation caused by atmospheric agents, humidity, and biological colonization. Moss, lichens, and water infiltration were compromising the structural integrity, making a respectful and conservative intervention urgently necessary.
• Pre-consolidation and biocide treatment: Consolidate friable surfaces with ethyl silicate and treat biological infestations with specific biocides.
• Cleaning and grouting: Low-pressure washing to remove encrustations, repair joints, and fill cracks with mortars compatible with the original stone.
• Color uniformity: The residual cement mortars from old interventions were harmonized with lime-based paints to respect the aesthetics of the building.
• Door restoration: Sanded, treated against woodworms and fungi, and protected with an open-pore varnish that guarantees breathability and durability.
The intervention stabilized the pietra molera, restored the aesthetic readability of the church, and ensured the preservation of historical elements, such as the entrance doors and original metal details.
Thanks to this meticulous and multidisciplinary effort, the Church of SS. Nazaro and Celso stands today not only as a symbol of faith but also as a virtuous example of Romanesque architectural heritage conservation, preserved for future generations.
