“Rebuilt in the 20th century” is probably not what you expected to hear about the Cappella dell’ Annunziata. But its story is one of change and adaptation. Let’s delve into the history of this place of worship right here on Via Po.
The Cappella dell’ Annunziata’s origins trace back to between 1648 and 1656. Carlo Morello designed the church for the Confraternita della Santissima Annunziata. This was during a new expansion of the city.
Initially, the Cappella dell’ Annunziata had a single nave. Its facade lacked porticos. This design maintained continuity with the street. In 1693, the building was expanded. The choir was enlarged and two side chapels added.
The 18th century brought artistic enrichments to the Cappella dell’ Annunziata. Bernardo Vittone created the main altar. Giuseppe and Stefano Maria Clemente crafted a wooden processional machine based on Beaumont’s design. Francesco Martinez, Simone Martinez’s nephew, created the altar and balustrade for the Addolorata chapel. The facade was completed in 1776 by Francesco Martinez.
Porticos were added in the 19th century. They aligned the church with the street’s layout. By the late 19th century, the Cappella dell’ Annunziata was in poor condition. It was also too small for the community served by the confraternity.
In 1913, the decision was made to demolish and rebuild it. Giuseppe Gallo was entrusted with the project. Construction began in 1919 and concluded in 1934. The current building was shifted west. This allowed for the opening of Via Sant’Ottavio.
The Cappella dell’ Annunziata was rebuilt in the Roman Baroque style. Original artworks were relocated inside. So, what we see today is a 20th-century reconstruction. It incorporates elements of the original 17th-century church. The Cappella dell’ Annunziata stands as a testament to Turin’s architectural evolution. It reflects the city’s religious devotion.