Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, legend links its origins to Galla Placidia, who is said to have built it using remnants of a temple of Jupiter Ammon. The first documented mention dates back to the 10th century, and archaeological evidence suggests a preceding Roman-era building, as indicated by reused materials incorporated into the structure.
The church’s name comes from its location at the eighth mile of the Via Faventina, the Roman road connecting Faenza to Florence along the Lamone Valley. The Romanesque structure, dating to the 11th–12th century, features a basilica plan with three naves separated by columns of varying marble, including a pink Verona marble column, and rounded arches. The building was expanded in the 16th century but retains much of its Romanesque character.
Inside, visitors are drawn to a wooden statue of the Madonna del Melograno and a Corinthian capital from the 1st century BC, repurposed as a holy water stoup. Excavations beneath the apse revealed a Romanesque crypt with traces of supporting pillars and a medieval pit for casting bells directly on-site. Some underground rooms now host a visitor path showcasing these finds, including a 2nd-century millstone.
The Pieve del Thò is located along the Sentiero dell’Olio, surrounded by the agricultural landscape of Brisighella, offering a serene setting for exploration and reflection.
April 15 – October 15: Sundays and holidays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
October 16 – April 14: Sundays and holidays from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM
