There are some special places; one of these is surely the ruined church of St. Canziano, situated at an altitude of 723 mt. on the peak, riding the ridge between the Valley of Natisone river and the Valley of Aborna river.
This church, built in the fifteenth century, for along time was a meeting point for communities of Mezzana and Vernassino, located on two opposite sides of the mountain.
Also little far from both villages, the church was used continuously to celebrate several Masses during the year, at several occasions, the most important of these was of course the St.Canziano celebration day.
Then, in the 30's, began the controversy between the pastor and the faithful, just for the date of celebration of this feast.
Later, in 1935, probably for these problems, the church was also desecrated, and the relics of the altar were stolen.
Following this robbery, the authorities decided to definitively abandon the church, and especially to put an end to disputes with the population.
Since then the building started a progressive deterioration and, after a dozen years, the wooden roof collapsed, followed by the perimeter walls, exposed to weather, began to disintegrate.
Currently we can still admire the two entrance ports, while the rear of the church is completely collapsed.
Outside, beyond a small window is visible, engraved on a stone, the number 1607; this surely does not indicate the date of construction of the church, but it probably has been reported in the moment of a maintenance or renovation of the building.
On St. Canziano peak I have been there more than once times.
It 'a truly fascinating place, where is possible admire a lovely panorama on the Valley of Natisone.
Very characteristic is also a great silence, which, enveloping the church and surrounding forest, allows the visitor to go back in time, to the medieval age.
However, every time I went there, watching what remains of the church, Im always little afraid.
I can't undestand how the authorities for conservation of Archeological Heritage, can accept that situation.
I do not understand why, too often, are carried archaeological excavations which, although of scientific interest, could certainly be postponed, leaving them for future generations.
I believe that the priority should be given to actions of safeguard, to recover our Historic Heritage, just as the church of St. Canziano. Truly shameful and incomprehensible that this building of the 1400 d.c., so a beatiful medieval building, is currently in this advanced state of decay, and is soon destined to disappear forever.