“The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom”. These words etched above the entrance to the Cappella del Sacro Cuore greet you. They are a powerful introduction to this Milanese chapel. A hidden gem nestled within the bustling city.
The Cappella del Sacro Cuore is more than just a place of worship. It’s a testament to artistry and faith. Built between 1931 and 1932 by Giovanni Muzio. It stands proudly overlooking Via Necchi Courtyard. It occupies space once a monastic library.
Notice the 16th-century archway. Muzio incorporated it into the chapel’s exterior. It originally stood near Largo Gemelli. The facade’s design is striking. Two levels each feature a large arch flanked by smaller ones. The exposed brickwork is reminiscent of the nearby Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio.
Inside the chapel’s vestibule lies a rectangular room. Beyond that is the presbytery slightly raised. This creates space for the crypt below. The interior is a stunning collaboration of architecture and art. Muzio commissioned Giacomo Manzù for the sculptures. Angelo and Mario Zappettini created the mosaics.
Manzù’s polychrome bas-reliefs are captivating. On the left Saint Margaret Alacoque and Saint Joseph with the Child. On the right the Immaculate Virgin with the Child and Saint Francis. The style echoes Byzantine art.
Above these are six more bas-reliefs. The Agnus Dei doves peacocks drinking from the spring of life bread and fish and the spring itself. The symbols are clearly Paleochristian.
The Zappettini brothers also crafted the golden mosaic in the apse. It’s reminiscent of Ravenna’s basilicas. The Latin inscription “I adore you devoutly oh hiding God” is striking. It’s from the Eucharistic Hymns by Saint Thomas Aquinas.
Lodovico Pogliaghi’s painting of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is central. Originally in the university’s first location it now finds its home here. Manzù also created the tabernacle door. It features the Paleochristian Agnus Dei.
The ceiling with its oak beams is decorated with geometric and naturalistic motifs. Two archways lead to the crypt. Here lie the remains of important figures. Father Agostino Gemelli Armida Barelli and Ernesto Lombardo. They played key roles in the university’s development.
Four granite columns sculpted by Manzù also reside in the crypt. They represent Saint Clare Saint Francis Elizabeth of Hungary and Saint Augustine.
A fascinating detail concerns Manzù’s wedding ring. Father Gemelli gifted him gold flakes from his goldsmithing work. Manzù used them to create his wedding ring. He married Antonia Orena in the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio.
The Cappella del Sacro Cuore is more than just a chapel. It is a place of history art and faith. A place where the past speaks to the present. A testament to devotion and collaboration. A true Milanese treasure.