Overlooking Pontremoli and protected by the slopes of the hills that rise toward the Apennines, Arzengio is truly rich in history.

Its mediaeval historic centre has remained well-preserved, now surrounded by many recent homes. The bell tower, erected in 1891, stands isolated between the remains of the old cemetery and the new parish church of St. Basilide, rebuilt in 1931 on the foundations of the older church, which was demolished the same year.

The ancient church, already mentioned in the Tithes of the 13th century and which was dependent on the parish of Urceola-Saliceto, underwent various modifications, particularly in the 16th century. With the term “dependent” we intend to mean that it was under the authority of the parish, this is because in mediaeval times, every small church was under the authority of one main church for each valley.  The interior of the new building, completed in 1932, is adorned with beautiful frescoes created between 1936 and 1965 by the artist Luigi Battistini originally from Fivizzano.

Ancient routes, such as the Lombard road and the Via Francigena, cross through this circular village, which in ancient times clustered around a fortification that has since disappeared.

Remains of early mediaeval walls bear witness to the passage of time in this evocative place, particularly in the nearby Mount Carnevale: large stacked stone blocks emerge from the ground, almost forming the base of an ancient tower.

A pleasant walk up to the “crocetta” (little cross) is one of the most characteristic and best-preserved routes in the area, with the old cobblestone path leading to a small church. A small marble bas-relief depicting St. Francis, placed above the entrance, informs us that the building was erected in 1841 and renovated in 1957.