Ever wondered which Turin church was possibly the first in the world dedicated to the Immaculate Conception after the dogma was defined? That is the Chiesa dell’Immacolata Concezione e San Donato. We are standing in front of an important example of eclectic architecture. It is typical of the second half of the 19th century.
The Chiesa dell’Immacolata Concezione e San Donato is a Catholic parish church. It is located in the Borgo San Donato area of Turin. Its story began as part of the Parrocchia dei SS Simone e Giuda in Borgo Dora. As the San Donato neighborhood grew, the need for a new church became clear.
In 1855, the parish of the Chiesa dell’Immacolata Concezione e San Donato was temporarily placed in the chapel. This was the chapel of the Istituto della Sacra Famiglia. By 1867, construction began on the church building we see today. The work lasted until 1869. The church was created by taking parts from the areas of the churches. These churches are Nostra Signora del Carmine and Borgo Dora. Borgo Dora was the previous parish for the people of Borgo San Donato. The parish was officially created on January 6, 1855, in the chapel of the Istituto della Sacra Famiglia. This honored the dogma defined by Pope Pius IX. It was likely the first in the world dedicated to the Immaculate Conception after the dogma.
The Chiesa dell’Immacolata Concezione e San Donato has a Latin cross plan with three naves. This design came from Cav Simonetti of Rivoli. Inside, the Carrara marble altar is a gift from the Montù family. Do not miss the fresco by Costantino Sereno. It is located to the right of the first altar. You will find eight side altars in the chapels along the side naves. These altars and paintings came from other parishes.
Look up to the main vault. There is an oval medallion showing the struggle between good and evil. Around it, three windows show the vices of corruption and the virtues of chastity. The dome above the transept depicts the Virgin Mary holding Christ. He is surrounded by eight angels. On the dome, you will see figures from the past. Also, look for Esther and Judith on the side vaults of the transept.
In the apse is a 16th-century niche. It holds a statue of the Immaculate Conception holding lilies. This statue is by Caccia of Milan. The presbytery is wrapped with a band. This band displays the text of the Magnificat. Thirty-two Corinthian capitals decorated with gold stucco adorn the transept and naves. Thirty-two medallions depict popes, martyrs, and saints. The rose window features decorated glass.
The facade is in the Neo-Gothic style. Enrico Ruffoni created it in 1906. Adolfo Barberis added the current decorations in 1923. Limited funds affected the choice of materials. However, a restoration between 1998 and 2002 preserved its condition.
During World War II, Turin was bombed. The Chiesa dell’Immacolata Concezione e San Donato was damaged. Some dividing walls collapsed and the roof was damaged. The church was officially consecrated on October 17, 1951.
The Chiesa dell’Immacolata Concezione e San Donato stands as a testament to faith and art. It embodies Turin’s rich history.