The Church of the
Gran Madre di Dio
Turin
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The Church of the Gran Madre di Dio in Turin was commissioned to celebrate the return of King Vittorio EmmanuIe in May 1814, after the Napoleonic occupation, symbolizing the city’s rebirth and renewed stability.
Its design was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, with manifest proportions and classical elements. When in front of it one can immediately admire the hexastyle pronaos, with six frontal Corinthian columns and a sculpted tympanum.
Inside, the single circular nave and the magnificent dome are considered a masterpiece of Neoclassicism style. The dome features an oculus, designed to illuminate the statue of St John the Baptist on his feast day.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
The Gran Madre di Dio is the only church in the city owned by the municipality. At the foot of its scenic monumental staircase stand two grand statues by Carlo Chelli: Faith and Religion. The statue of Faith, in particular, has nourished legends for years, suggesting a connection to the story of the Holy Grail. The Gran Madre is surrounded by hidden symbolism and esoteric meanings, making it much more than just a religious building.