The Chiesa parrocchiale di San Sebastiano, a circular church on Via Torino, has a curious history. Built in the 16th century, it was erected as a thank you to Saint Sebastian for ending a devastating plague that plagued Milan. It’s a unique landmark, not only for its circular design which reminds one of the Pantheon in Rome, but also because it is owned and maintained by the municipality of Milan, hence the name Civico Tempio. The church was built by the city government, not the Church, but it is a place of worship, not simply a museum. The church stood on the site of a much older church dedicated to Saint Tranquillino, which was demolished to make way for this new structure.
The Chiesa parrocchiale di San Sebastiano has a rich interior. It is adorned with marble, frescoes, and paintings. The cupola is decorated with frescoes by Agostino Comerio depicting the mystery of the redemption, while the walls bear works by artists such as Francesco Brizzi, Federico Barocci, and Andrea Lanzani. A particularly striking feature is the sarcophagus beneath the Chapel of the Pietà, which holds the remains of an unknown intern who died in a concentration camp. It serves as a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Second World War.
The church boasts several side altars; one, in the first niche on the left, displays a copy of the San Sebastiano painting by Vincenzo Foppa. The original version of this artwork resides in the Castello Sforzesco. The high altar, dating back to the mid-18th century, is ornamented with a magnificent intricately carved and gilded sanctuary. In the second niche on the left is a Neo-Classical sculpture by Benedetto Cacciatori that represents the Pietà. The church stands as a testament to Milan’s deep-rooted faith and its resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a captivating reminder of the city’s vibrant past and its enduring spirituality.