Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio

Overview

The Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio is a striking neoclassical church modelled on the Pantheon in Rome, dramatically positioned on the east bank of the Po at the foot of the Collina. Built to celebrate King Vittorio Emanuele I's return after Napoleon's defeat, it is one of Turin's most photographed monuments.

Highlights

• Pantheon-inspired portico: Six Corinthian columns supporting a classical pediment, framing views back across the river to the city centre.
• Allegorical statues: The two female figures flanking the entrance — 'Faith' holding a chalice and 'Religion' holding a cross — are rumoured to point toward the hiding place of the Holy Grail.
• Esoteric Turin: The church is a key site in Turin's reputation as a city of white and black magic.

History

Commissioned in 1818 to celebrate the restoration of the Savoy monarchy after Napoleon. Designed by Ferdinando Bonsignore and completed in 1831, it deliberately echoed the Roman Pantheon to assert Turin's claims as a new Rome. The surrounding plaza was Turin's 2006 Winter Olympics medal ceremony venue.

Visitor Tips

• Photo opportunity: Cross the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I for the best view of the church framed against the green hillside.
• Combine with Monte dei Cappuccini: The viewpoint is a 10-minute walk uphill from here.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.