Domianaz Chapel
Edited by:
Massimo Martini
Access
At the motorway exit of Châtillon, turn left towards the centre of the town; when you reach the little central square, turn right and follow the entire street to a crossroads: go straight on, following the signs for the hilltop villages (Domianaz). Go up the hill, passing several villages, until you come to the junction for the panoramic road towards Saint-Vincent near Albard: ignore the latter, turning left and, after four hairpin bends, you will come to the characteristic little church of Domianaz: turn right and you will reach the small car park 🅿️ behind the chapel where you can leave your car.
[0h13'] - [5,7km]
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The directions provided were carefully checked on the date the route was taken. However, it is highly recommended to check for any changes that may have occurred since then, especially regarding the route to the starting point. Before embarking on your journey, it is advisable to consult up-to-date navigation tools for accurate and up-to-date directions. We recommend the use of satellite navigation apps, such as Google Maps or Apple Maps, to ensure the most accurate and safe route.
Introduction
The chapel of Domianaz, in the village of the same name in Châtillon, Valle d'Aosta, is a small jewel of local devotion, dedicated to Saint Roch and Our Lady of Loreto. Located at the entrance to the village, it stands at an altitude of about 750 metres, immersed in a landscape that alternates between woods and vineyards. Built in 1630 at the behest of Antoine Rinet of Pantaléon, it is a testimony of faith and gratitude: according to tradition, Rinet promised to build this chapel in thanksgiving for the protection of himself and his family from the plague that hit the village hard, miraculously sparing them.
Description
In architectural terms, the chapel retains the typical features of 17th-century Alpine religious buildings, with a simple and harmonious structure in local stone. The façade, sober and linear, is enriched by a small bell gable and decorations reminiscent of Marian devotion. The interior is embellished with frescoes celebrating Our Lady of Loreto and St. Rocco, central figures in the devotional tradition of the place, particularly invoked for protection from disease.
The chapel is not only a place of worship, but also a meeting place for the local community. Every year, on 16 August, the day dedicated to Saint Roch, the villagers gather to celebrate the patron saint with a mass and procession, perpetuating traditions rooted in the history of Domianaz. Its cosy atmosphere and panoramic location make it an attractive destination for those wishing to discover the spiritual and cultural wealth of Châtillon.
Visiting the chapel of Domianaz also means immersing oneself in local history and legends. It is said that the village was particularly affected by the plague and that it was only thanks to faith and the promise of Rinet that divine grace was obtained. Folk tales have developed around this tale, adding to the charm of the place.
In addition to its historical and spiritual importance, the chapel is set in a beautiful natural environment. Domianaz offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful atmosphere, far from the hubbub of the main valley. The village's location also makes it possible to undertake excursions to other hamlets and places of interest, such as nearby Nissod, further enhancing the visiting experience.
The chapel at Domianaz is therefore a place that invites not only spiritual reflection but also the discovery of a corner of the Aosta Valley that holds unique traditions, stories and landscapes.