Chiesa di S. Stefano in Pistrino
Located on the western fringe of the village of Pristino along the provincial road that crosses the territory of the municipality of Citerna east to west, St. Stephen’s Church is one of the most ancient, interesting and, perhaps, less-known buildings in town. It endured negligence and adverse weather conditions, almost forgotten in between more recent buildings. Deconsecrated in 1957/58, it used to accommodate several tombstones along the perimeter walls, a clear evidence of the customary practice of burying the dead within the churches. A small wooden choir was located in the entrance, supported by columns and accessible through a small staircase. Only men were allowed to access it to attend religious services. Outside is visible the bell gable, though the bells have been removed. Its massive structure suggests its importance in the Middle Ages.
The façade, facing north-west, is extremely simple and made of mixed stonemasonry. Some corner elements made of Serena stone, still partly well-preserved, are contrasted by a regular wall texture in square light stone blocks on the lower part. At a height of around 4 meters, the façade features a masonry obtained through the use of roughly-squared river stones simply bound together by lime mortar and sand. The roofing is made of clay bent tiles while the lateral eaves are of brick tiles. An artistic iron cross marks the church axis. The brick bell gable is positioned at right angles to the front and is well preserved.
The entrance is framed by elements in Serena stone and shows a fine, though badly damaged, wooden door. A large rectangular opening, probably modified, surmounts the entrance and illuminates the small choir.