Ossiach - Alpine Church of San Leonardo Abate

Surrounded by centuries-old acacias and chestnut trees, situated on an embankment enclosed by a sturdy dry stone wall, the small church is generally attributed to the late 15th century. However, there is a chapter license for its erection dated 1540, and a cornerstone on the facade bears the date 1546, which is certainly the era of its construction.
Currently, the porch has a full arch opening on the right side, while the front is uncovered; originally, it had a gable roof. The bell tower, with a square section and a cell with four bifora windows and two bells, has been incorporated into the church: half of the front arch has therefore been closed. The entrance door is flanked by two rectangular windows, as is the rectangular hall with an exposed beam ceiling. A full triumphal arch leads into the presbytery, illuminated by a recent semicircular window. The presbytery ceiling features a ribbed network with figurative keys supported by corbels. The main key depicts the titular saint. The wooden altar, dated 1689, is of fine craftsmanship and possibly the work of Jernei Vrtav (Bartolomeo Ortari) from Caporetto, containing three statues believed to be from the school of Gemona: in the center, San Leonardo, and on the sides, San Mattia and Sant’Ermacora. An interesting feature is the chalice-shaped holy water stoup carved from a monolithic block.