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 A model of grandeur and wealth |
Piazza della Consolata Turin 10122 Italy |
Construction on this church began in 1679 under Guarino Guarini. The foundations were laid on the site where the church of Saint Andrea previously stood with its hexagonal presbetery. After the death of Guarini, Juvarra designed the dome upon which Bortoloni's fresco was painted. The 11th century Romanesque tower belonged to the previous church and now sits on the right hand side of the Basilica's facade. The church is decorated with many valuable marbles, most of which were votive offerings. The impressive marble floor is one of the main talking points of this church. Next to the Basilica della Consolata stands a 25 meter high dedicatory column. A statue of the virgin Mary was placed on top in 1835 as a thank you to the Madonna for keeping at bay the dreaded plague which devastated Europe that year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: federica anna 77 |
 Photo: klausbergheimer |
 Photo: Andrea&Michela |
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Strange rites below the church |
Piazza Gran Madre di Dio Turin 10131 Italy |
The Gran Madre is the true "magic pole" of Turin. As if the talk about the Holy Grail and Nostradamus was not enough, the whispers about the Gran Madre have to be mentioned, "Black masses are held there underground". This is the first thing a Torinese will tell you as he points to the church in front of Piazza Vittorio on the other side of the Po. But how do these rumors start? Mainly from two sources: first, the city is criss-crossed by underground passages that have always been the settings for black masses; second, the church was built in a very particular spot. Since the city was founded, different temples have stood exactly where the Gran Madre can now be admired. It is therefore possible to imagine that the ruins of the previous buildings can be accessed. Put the two together and the result is the rumours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The preserved femur of the Saint |
4 Via dei Mercanti Turin 10122 Italy +39 011 53 5323 |
The construction of this building was planned by Lanfranchi in 1667. The facade was only finished in 1885 by Velasco. Inside, the main altar is the work of Vittone while the two statues depicting San Rocco and San Espedito were made by Cattaneo in 1924. The silver urn containing the thighbone of the Saint was designed by Juvarra. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A curious name.... |
25 Via Giuseppe Garibaldi Turin 10122 Italy +39 11 562 7226 |
This is a classic example of baroque style from the end of the 17th century. The name derives from the Congregation of Bankers and Merchants which was formed a few years before the chapel was built. Made up of a large, rectangular room which is rather magnificent, the vault is decorated with remarkable frescoes. In the adjacent rooms to the chapel is an interesting, mechanichal calendar which goes from the year 1 to the year 4000 A.D. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Leading the condemned to death |
41 Via Giuseppe Barbaroux Turin 10122 Italy +39 011 53 7784 |
This is a seventeenth century church with a rather austere design in a Greek cross style. This is where those condemned to death were led before being executed on the scaffold. At the foot of the Crucifix are ropes, nooses, cords, lanterns and goblets which are a testimony to this sad ceremony. S. Guiseppe Cafasso worked in this holy building for the moral comfort of those who were condemned. The Mass of the ancient rite in Latin and Gregorian chanting is held in the church. Open Su 10a-noon and by request Mass Su 11a (service is in Latin) Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tamara Polajnar  |
 Photo: Spicules |
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Where a miracle occured |
Piazza Corpus Domini Turin 10122 Italy +39 011 436 6025 |
This is a 17th century church designed by Vittozzi which was built in the place where, in 1453, a miracle occurred. The church was built for the people after a vote taken during the plague in 1598. Inside, the place where the miracle happened is visible; the area is, however, enclosed and there is no access to it. There is a painting by Caravoglia illustrating the episode next to the site. The right altar was made by Juvarra, while the pulpit is by Perucca. On the walls, which are painted by Meyer, are frescoes of Vacca and and of S. Guiseppe in transit by Donnini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: antonio frezza |
 Photo: Giancarlo Baravalle |
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Home of the Shroud |
Piazza San Giovanni Turin, Turin 10122 Italy +39 (0)11 436 1540 |
San Giovanni Battista, better known as the Duomo, is a Cathedral that was constructed by the will of Cardinal Domenico Della Rovere. It was designed by Bartolomeo del Caprino da Settignano based on the plans of Baccio Pontelli. The architectural style is pure Renaissance, with 3 aisles laid out like a Roman Cross. The façade is constructed in white marble from Carrara, and the entrance has three doors sculpted in wood from C.M. Ugliengo based on a design by Cerutti. This structure is one of the most important Baroque monuments because of the daring architecture of the cupola, the various overlapping arches, and the wonderful effects of light. Perhaps the biggest attraction to this church is Turin's famous Sindone, the shroud said to have once been wrapped around the body of Jesus. There is also a copy of the Leonardo's 'Last Supper' on the centre door, while a vault decorated with a fresco by Fea, Gonin, and Vacca based on Talucchi's original design is also on display. The large altar of the Chapel of the Crucifixion is the work of the Collino brothers. One can also see 'The Crucifixion' by Borelli, two gilded statues by Borelli and Clemente, two statues in marble by Legros representing Saint Cristina and Saint Teresa, the bust of Pius IX by Albertoni, and the tomb of Cardinal Della Rovere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kurt |
 Photo: Bryan Allison |
 Photo: siomar |
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The Torinese Pantheon |
Piazza Gran Madre di Dio Turin 10131 Italy +39 011 819 3572 |
If you cross the River Po on the Piazza Vittorio bridge, you will find yourself directly in front of the Gran Madre di Dio church. It is a scenographic construction in a circular shape, built between 1818 and 1831 to commemmorate the return of Vittorio Emanuele I to Turin on the 20th May 1814. The church houses the remains of 5000 men who fell in WWI. Note the access staircase with the two statues of Religion and Faith, as well as the the Crucifix and Sacred Heart of Jesus inside. Open: Weekdays: 7:30a-noon, 4:30p-7p; Weekends: 7:30a-1p, 3:30p-7p, 8:30p-10p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Hutchinson |
 Photo: Jim |
 Photo: Al-Pin |
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The stamp of Juvarra |
Piazza Carlo Emanuele II Turin 10123 Italy +39 11 53 5948 |
This church has a distinctive, elliptical shape, built according to a plan by Juvarra as to the altars and their layout. The bell tower was planned and built by the architect Borra. The interior of the church is enriched by the 'Deposizione' of Beaumont, the 'S.Pietro in cattedra' on the right side and by the 'Nativity' by Brambilla on the left side. The frescoes on the choir box are the work of the painter Van Loo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Altered many times |
7-9 Via Porta Palatina Turin 10122 Italy |
This is an extremely old church which has undergone several modifications through the course of time. The austere, seventeenth century aspect built to the wish of Vittone who planned it in the shape of a Greek cross and with a modest facade, finished in 1766. In 1629, C. di Castellamonte made the belltower and an altar in 1645. The current church is a seventeenth century remodel by Feroggio, which he did after the second world war. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Built in the nineteenth century |
Via Sant' Anselmo Turin 10121 Italy |
This synagogue was built in the nineteenth century. In 1880 E. Petiti built the two beautiful domes and planned the front with four columns. It is located in Piazzetta Primo Levi, which is the first parallel of Corso Vittorio Emanuele I after Via Carlo Alberto. For security reasons, no parking is allowed in the three surrounding roads (the fourth side is linked to other buildings after a clearway owned by the synagogue). Therefore it is not possible to stop there as there are stone blocks which prevent this. There is a police car on the corner opposite the main entrance (the rear) at all times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anthony D Buccellato |
 The church of San Dalmazzo |
3 Via delle Orfane Turin Italy |
The church of San Dalmazzo stands where once the church of San Pietro Monacarum stood. And, according to Antonio Astesano, in was in the former building at the time of Pliny that it was possible to see the tomb of Phaeton Heridanus, the legendary Egyptian founder of the city of Turin. Another indication of Heridanus was a tombstone found in San Dalmazzo that referred to the controversial figure. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Designed by Juvarra |
3 Via del Carmine Turin 10122 Italy +39 11 436 9525 |
Carmine's church is an original work by Filippo Juvarra. It was built between 1732-1736 but was completed by Agliaudo di Tavigliano, Francesco Benedetto Feroggio and Ignazio Birago di Borgaro. The facade was constructed in 1872. The interior has only a single nave and no transept. There is a barrel vault and three chapels on each side. The apse is decorated with a "Madonna del Carmine and the Blessed Amedeo of Savoy" painted by Claudio Francesco Beaumont in the second half of the 18th century. Opening hours: M-Sa 7.30a-1p, 3.30p-7.15p; Su 9a-12:30p Services: Weekdays: 8a & 6.30p; Weekends: 9.30a & 11.30a Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The church of Madonna |
195 Corso Casale Turin 10132 Italy +39 11 89 0448 |
This church, (a bit out of the centre, but popular with the Torinesi), has a large, votive stake. The image of the Madonna was erected on this as a thank you for a miraculous event which took place here on 29th April 1644. The church was opened to the public in 1645, the year after the works began. Particularly distinctive are eight ovals, the work of Albornoz, placed on the cornice. These depict the miracle, which led to the building of the church and others which are always attributed to the protective presence of the Madonna. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A famous sanctuary |
39 Via Carlo Alberto Turin 10123 Italy +39 011 812 7520 |
This church was consecrated in 1654, but only became a parish in 1834. It was restored in 1853 and 1888 and was completely modernized in 1901 by Carlo Ceppi. He modified the facade and a dome and belltower were added. Vacca, Sciolli and Reardino all contributed to the decoration. It became a sanctuary in 1916. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Late renaissance work |
9 Piazza Maria Ausiliatrice Turin 10152 Italy |
This church was built between 1865 and 1868 according to the wish of Don Giovanni Bosco, whose remains rest in an internal chapel of the church. The facade is late-renaissance with the statue of the protective martyrs of the city. A great dome dominates the centre with a completely golden statue of the Madonna. The church's structure is in the shape of a Latin cross and the interior is decorated with magnificent marble. Open: 7a-10p Services: Weekdays: 6p Weekends: 6a, 7a, 8a, 9a, 10a, 11a, noon, 5:30p, 6:30p, 9p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Vestri |
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Muslim Worship |
31 Via Giuseppe Baretti Turin 10125 Italy +39 0116 698462 |
This is a city location for Muslim worship and other services. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A sacred building from the beginning of the century |
45 Via Po Turin 10124 Italy +39 011 817 1423 |
This is a reconstruction of an old church dating from 1648, which took place between 1918 and 1934 and was directed by the Gallo architects. On the top of the façade are the statues of the major prophets, the work of Buzzi Reschini who also made the bronze door. The roof is particularly unusual as it is formed from a vast terrace. The interior is divided into a single nave with five lateral chapels. Behind the main altar, which is the work of Vittone, are marble medallions by Martinez. The tabernacle door was made by Magnani in embossed silver. In the church is a painting of the Annunciation by Beaumont. Open: Tu, F 3:30p-7:30p; W, Sa 10a-noon Mass: Weekdays 12:30p, 6p, 7p; Sa 6p; Su 9a, 11a Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The first stone was laid in 1557 |
25 Via Giuseppe Garibaldi Turin 1022 Italy +39 011 562 2581 |
The first stone of this church, designed by Tibaldi, was laid in 1557. The construction work was directed by Borelli and Vittozi. The church was built with a single nave of two spans and with a dome, planned by Quadro, which was built lengthways. Filippo Juvarra, the historic Torinese architect, designed the main altar behind which is the urn containing the remains of the Martyred Saints Solutore Avventore and Ottavio, who were both protectors of the city. An altar piece by the painter Guglielmi has been placed above the main altar. Inside the holy building are paintings depicting the Agony of Jesus, by Milocco, S. Ignazio by Vacca and S. Paolo by Zuccari. Open: 8a-noon, 4:30p-7p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Covered in precious marble |
6 Via Giuseppe Garibaldi Turin 10122 Italy |
The altars and furnishings symbolise SS. Trinita. It was built in 1583 to a plan by Vittozzi, but it underwent modifications and decorations from Castellamonte and Juvarra who covered it with precious marble. In 1830 Marchini planned the new facade. Inside visitors can admire the altars by Morello, a Flemish painting by Carracha and wooden statues sculpted by Perrucca. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Dining On-The-Go |
Corso Turati 19/6 Turin 10128 Italy +39 011 576 4733-750 http://www.comune.torino.it/gt... |
With all the wonderful food and historic sights Turin has to offer, it can be hard to fit everything into one visit. However, Ristocolor provides busy travellers with a new way to dine- onboard a historic tram! Take a ride through the streets and past historic monuments while enjoying each dish specializing in the delicious Piedmont cuisine. The tram has been completely renovated to fit up to 32 passengers, with colorful decorations both inside and out. It is a great way to fit in even more of what the city has to offer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A splendid eighteenth century crucifix |
20 Via Milano Turin 10122 Italy |
The Basilica was built in 1679, according to a design by Bettino, a colleague of Lanfanchi. The inside is built on an octagonal design, surrounded by stone columns by Gassino. C.B. Mosca designed the facade and the dome which were completed only in 1836. There are also splendid paintings by Morirai and Gino and a group of papier-maché works, in the sacristy, which are attributed to Ladatte. The silver crucifix dates from the 18th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Replete with precious decoration |
Piazza San Carlo Turin 10123 Italy |
Built in 1619 due to the will of Carlo Emanuele I, has been for M. Valperga. It has been constructed by an unique central aisle with four chapels. The presbytery with barrel vault is of particular interest. This is the sister chapel of Saint Cristina and is situated on the south side of Piazza San Carlo. Services: Ordinary Days: 6p Festive Days: 10a, 11a, midday, 6p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Uccio D'Agostino |
 Photo: karpersa |
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Originating from the 13th century |
3 Via delle Orfane Turin 10122 Italy |
This church was originally built in 1200 but was totally rebuilt in 1530. It is the home of the Confraternita della Misericordia, and passed to the Barnabites in 1608. The façade dates from 1626 but was redecorated in 1702 and 1716 while they were repairing the damage done by the siege. The last restoration was done in 1959. Inside, visitors can admire the main, early Christian altar and valuable paintings by Molieri. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Unique gothic construction |
1 Via San Domenico Turin 10122 Italy |
Built between 1227 and 1300, this is the only gothic building in the city of Turin. In 1904 D'Andrade was given the responsibility of overseeing the restoration as the Church had been rather weighed down by decorations and baroque superstructures during the 17th and 18th centuries. The rather simple architectural structure is perfectly balanced. The interior with three naves is enriched by fourteenth century frescoes of the Chapel of Madonna delle Grazie. This church was also the seat of the Convent of the Domenicani which can also be entered from the Church of San Domenico. Open: 7a-7p Services: Weekdays: 6p Weekends: 10a, 6p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chie Shimodaira |
 Photo: Robert Wagner |
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Built for a vow |
4 Via Palazzo di Città Turin 10122 Italy +39 11 53 7640 / +39 11 43 6529 |
This church was built by the will of Emanuele Filiberto, who had promised to build a church in a vow made before the battle of San Quintino, won by the king, which took place on the 10th August, the day which is dedicated to San Lorenzo. The church was built according to a plan by Guarino Guarini between 1667 and 1680. It is a perfect expression of seventeenth century baroque style both in the design of its dome and in the interior decorations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ruth |
 Photo: Piero Borello |
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Carlo Albertine classicism |
28 Via dei Mille Turin 10123 Italy |
The church of San Massimo was built between 1844-53 and is one of the most interesting examples of "Carlo Albertine classicism". The magnificent pronaos supported by Corinthian columns stands in front of the facade adorned with statues portraying the four evangelists. Statues of the prophets line the single nave which is also decorated with interesting frescoes. On the left is the altarpiece known as the Victory of Legnanino showing the "Nativity of the Virgin". The work was commissioned by the city of Turin to commmemorate the victory over the French in the battle of 1706. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Difficulty of integration |
22 Via Nizza Turin 10125 Italy |
The church of San Salvario stands in one of Turin's most notorious areas; notorious for there being difficulty of integration of the local population with the immigrant population that has arrived in recent years. Construction of the church and its convent annexe began in 1645 but it was soon altered by Castellamonte who introduced the convent wings on either side of the church. The facade has two orders with the portico crowned by another trabeation. The upper level of the building takes up the motif that decorates the portico. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.tolove.it |
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The highest shrine in Europe |
Turin, Cuneo 12010 Italy +39 (0)1 7195 9125 http://www.santuariosantanna.it |
The Sant'Anna di Vinadio shrine is found in the heart of the Maritime Alps amongst old glaciers and picturesque lakes. There is a local tradition that Sant'Anna appeared to a shepherdess near to where the shrine was built. The shrine was built thanks to the work of pilgrims who continue to come here in their thousands, with numbers increasing every year. At 2,035 metres, it is the highest shrine in Europe, and can only be reached in the summertime, from July to the beginning of September. The shrine administration provides hospitality services for the pilgrims, for groups of school children and for anyone who wishes to experience a period of spiritual contemplation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Destination for many devotees |
Piazza Santa Rita Turin 10136 Italy +39 11 329 0169 http://www.santaritadacascia.org |
This is one of the most recently built churches in the city. The first stone of this neo-gothic sanctuary designed by the architect Valoni, was laid in 1929. Since its completion it has been a destination for pilgrims from all over Italy and abroad. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Twin sister in Piazza San Carlo |
Via Roma Turin 10123 Italy +39 11 53 9281 |
The church of Santa Cristina was built on the request of Madama Reale, Maria Cristina, in 1639 on the project of Carlo di Castellamonte. The façade erected between 1715 and 1718, is the work of Juvarra. It has one nave and is rather simple in style, but the chapel dedicated to San Giuseppe and Santa Cristina. It has been built on the side of Via Roma in front of the church of San Carlo. These two sister churches stand out on the south side of the piazza. Services: Ordinary Days: 6.30p. Festive Days: 8.30a, 9.30a, 10.30a, 11.30a, 6.30p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A panoramic view |
35 Via Maresciallo Gaetano Giardino Turin 10131 Italy +39 11 660 4414 |
If you decide to accept the challenge of making the climb up the Monte dei Cappuccini, you will find the church of Santa Maria del Monte on the top next to the national museum. The church was built on the spot where a structure that used to be known as the "bastion of Turin" used to stand. A statue of St. Mary stands in front of the centrally laid out ground plan. The smoothed corners of the church form an octagonal design in which there are apses of various depth. The right altar is decorated with a copy of the painting by Cerano of the "Madonna and Saints Francis and Laurence". The original is held in the Savoy Gallery. The high altar is a 17th c. work by Carlo and Amedeo di Castellamonte. The left altar contains the painting "The martyrdom of St. Maurice" by Moncalvo from the early 17th c. Open: 8.30a-noon, 3p-7.30p Services: Weekdays: 6.30p; Weekends: 11a, 5p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jyrki huusko |
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A Neo-Classical facade |
4 Via Santa Maria Turin 10122 Italy +39 11 562 0382 |
The small church of Santa Maria di Piazza is distinguished by its Neo-Classical facade and was designed by Vittone in the mid-18th c. The church is built in the shape of a Greek cross, created from the integration of the original building with two side chapels. The original structure had an elliptical plan crowned by a dome. The first altar is decorated by a painting of the "Baptism of Christ" by Michele Antonio Milocco. The second altar has a work by Felice Cervetti entitled "Souls in Purgatory;" and the high altar has "Assumption of the Virgin" by Pietro Francesco Guala. Open: 8.30a-12.45p, 3p-7p Services: Weekdays: 8a & 6.30p; Weekends: 8.30a, 11a, 6.30p Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Altars by Juvarra |
5 Via Santa Teresa Turin 10121 Italy +39 11 53 8278 |
This church was built between 1669 and 1674 to a design by the Carmelite Costaguta. The facade is attributed to Alberti but claimed by Barberis. The S. Giuseppe and Sacra Famiglia altars were made by Juvarra. There is also a majestic crucifix by Clemente and valuable sculptures by Tantardini and Martinez. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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From ancient origins |
21 Via Sant'Agostino Turin 10122 Italy +39 11 436 8833 |
The origins of this church are ancient. The building went to the Augustinians who rebuilt it between 1555 and 1643. Ceppi began to restore it from 1900 and in 1912 remade the facade on whose architrave are signs of the saint. There is some work by Spanzotti and Perucca inside and an seventeenth century altarpiece by Lanfranchi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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One of the oldest churches in Turin |
11 Via San Francesco d'Assisi Turin 10122 Italy +39 11 562 8474 |
Considering when it was founded, in 1214, this is one of the oldest churches in the city. Vittone, together with his disciple Quarini, remodelled it in 1716. On 6 June 1841, on the Altar of the Angel Custode, San Giovanni Bosco held his first Holy Mass.Inside the building one can admire many works including the beautiful altar piece by Zuccari. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Attributed to Costaguta |
16 Via Po Turin 10123 Italy +39 11 88 3605 |
This church is attributed to the Carmelite Costaguta who probably built it in 1634. The facade, with its distinctive ducal coats of arms, was only finished in 1673 by Solaro. Inside a splendid altar by Castellamonte has been preserved while the statues on the pulpit are the work of Carlone. The life of the saint is narrated by two frescoes by Dauphin. On the left, the first chapel was designed by Juvarra while in the second, under the altar steps, the heart of the prince cardinal Maurizio of Savoy and the internal organs of his wife-niece Ludoovica are buried. On the right, the second chapel has a painting by Legnanino. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A work by Guarini |
5 Via Maria Vittoria Turin 10123 Italy +39 11 53 8456 |
This was built by Guarini in 1679. After his death in 1683 and the disastrous collapse of the dome, only the ceiling masonry and the anterior part remained. Juvarra took over from Guarini who wanted to modify the original design, however, in the end, the works were entrusted to Sacchetti and Tavigliano. The work was completed by Barberis and Talucchi. Inside the holy building numerous paintings have been preserved which are extremely large and valuable. The works which stand out are 'The Virgin with Santa Caterina, San Eusebio, San Giovanni Battista and the Blessed Amedeo' by Cravoglia, 'San Filippo Neri' by Solimena and 'San Lorenzo' by Trevisani. In the third chapel on the right are the remains of the Blessed Valfre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
![St. Philip Neri Church photo by [andre]](pictures/48132.jpg) Photo: [andre] |
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Damaged by a powder explosion |
11 Via Monte di Pietà Turin 10121 Italy +39 11 54 4667 http://www.tommasoapostolo.com |
This is a very old church which was rebuilt by the Franciscans in 1575. In 1698 a gunpowder explosion seriously damaged the building which was rebuilt by Ramo who also added a dome and painted a fresco over 40 years from 1703 to 1743. In 1876 it underwent another restoration by Ceppi. On the walls are frescoes by Reffo, Parachini and Fava. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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National historic monument |
23 Corso Vittorio Emanuele II Turin 10125 Italy +39 011 669 2838 |
The Valdese Temple of Turin was built between 29 October 1851 and 15 December 1853, (the day of its inauguration). General Carlo Beckwith was a great supporter, and financial backer of the temple, both in the buying of land for it and its construction. He was born in Halifax in Northern America in 1789, and was a brilliant officer in the British army. He became dedicated to philosophy and theology after his leg was amputated from wounds received during battle. General Beckwith went on to promote the building of schools. He died in Torre Pellice on 19 July 1862, far from homeland, but amongst people he had helped and loved. The Temple was built with international financial support, including help from the English, as there was already a committee to aid the Valdesi population in London. Beckwith himself said this building will be the place of worship not of Waldenses only, but of all the Protestants there, natives of Turin and strangers, who shall say, we will go into the house of the lord. The Valdese Temple in Turin was the first temple outside of Valli. Inside, Byzantine and Gothic style merge in a harmonious combination. The temple is more than 38 metres in length and 17 metres wide. At the northern end, there is a vestibule, through which, by means of three doors, a large central one and two small ones on either side, one enters into the temple itself. This has three naves, with two, long lateral ones and a central nave. The central nave is 12 metres long and 14 metres high and is covered by a double series of beautiful, Roman arches, seven on each side, which are supported by 16 columns that finish in a graceful apse. There are thirty five windows, seven of which are in the apse and illuminate the inside of the temple. There are two small towers on either side of the facade which looks out onto Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. The temple can hold up to 1,500 people and has been declared a national monument. There are services on Sundays, one of which is in English. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |