The Romanesque basilica dedicated to the Como protomartyr S. Carpoforo stands not far from the supposed site of his martyrdom and was his burial place for centuries.
It is considered Como’s first basilica, built according to tradition in the 4th century at the behest of Como’s first bishop, St. Felix, who was buried here.
Some tombstones of Como’s first Christians, the “first stones” of the faith in Como’s land, are also preserved here.
In 1040 Bishop Litigerio ordered the transformation of the basilica and the construction of an adjoining Benedictine men’s monastery.
Over the centuries there were many interventions and restorations that led it to assume its present appearance.
The facade is set against the mountain, and the church is accessible only by side doors.
The internal spatial organization is fascinating because of the very high pier on which the presbytery is arranged to cover the crypt.
