In 1925 a cornerstone was laid. It marked the beginning of the Chiesa di Santa Teresa del Bambin Gesù. This wasn’t just any church. It was a testament to faith and perseverance. It rose in Gorla a Milanese neighborhood. The church was dedicated to Saint Teresa of the Child Jesus. She was Gorla’s patron saint.
Construction started in earnest in January 1927. It was a cold Christmas night. That frigid night began the journey to a Prepositural church. Later it was elevated to a parish by Cardinal Eugenio Tosi. This happened during the Holy Forty Hours devotion in January 1928. The dedication to Saint Teresa held deep meaning for the community.
The story of the Chiesa di Santa Teresa del Bambin Gesù is intricately linked to the Discalced Carmelite nuns. Their history stretches back centuries. They had a monastery originally located in via della Moscova. That’s in the city center. The nuns relocated to the Portello area. There they constructed this magnificent church.
The construction was spearheaded by the Sicilian noblewoman Princess Maria Paternò. She was a Carmelite nun. The year 1923 saw Teresa of the Child Jesus proclaimed blessed. Her canonization followed in 1925. This coincided perfectly with the start of the church’s construction. Princess Paternò designed every detail. She meticulously planned the layout and the interior decorations. She even secured donations throughout Italy to finance this impressive undertaking.
The church’s design is remarkable. It boasts three naves a central one and two lateral ones. These lead to a presbytery and apse. The apse features stunning frescoes. These are the work of the renowned painter M C Grandi. A statue of Saint Teresina sculpted by Castiglioni is also present. The frescoes and artwork depict the life of Saint Teresa and scenes from the Bible. The entire structure is a masterpiece of Neo-Romanesque style.
The church faced challenges. World War II caused damage. Bombing in 1944 damaged the monastery and part of the church’s left side. The nuns were evacuated. Post-war reconstruction was undertaken. The church also briefly served as a parish church for four years. This was while a neighboring church was being built.
Later renovations were needed. The Vatican II Council prompted changes. The altar was moved to face the congregation. The renovations aimed to preserve the church’s beauty while making the necessary adjustments. The Chiesa di Santa Teresa del Bambin Gesù stands as a testament to faith architectural beauty and the enduring spirit of a community. It is a stunning example of Neo-Romanesque architecture in Milan. It’s a must-see.