Erected in 1866, Chiesa di Nostra Signora del Suffragio e Santa Zita rises before you. This church stands as a testament to faith and architectural ambition. It is located in the San Donato district.
Francesco Faà di Bruno initiated its construction. He was a presbyter and mathematician. He founded the Opera di Santa Zita in 1859. His vision shaped this sacred space.
Originally, Edoardo Arborio Mella was assigned the church’s project. However, Francesco Faà di Bruno later took over. He imprinted his personal touch on its design. The Chiesa di Nostra Signora del Suffragio reflects a Neo-Romanesque style. Its design is both austere and dignified.
Inside the Chiesa di Nostra Signora del Suffragio, three naves unfold. Each is topped with cross vaults. Along the side naves, matroneums allowed light to flood the central area. The octagonal cupola crowns the central nave’s last bay. Its Romanesque-Byzantine style evokes medieval grandeur. The brick facade is adorned with hanging arches and sharp pinnacles. The central doorway is crafted from stone. It is topped by a lunette dedicated to the Madonna.
A statue by Antonio Tortone stands behind the central nave of Chiesa di Nostra Signora del Suffragio. Carved from a single block of Carrara marble, it represents Our Lady of Universal Suffrage. To the right upon entering, a chapel holds the remains of Francesco Faà di Bruno. An adjacent fresco portrays the founder himself.
The campanile rises impressively beside the Chiesa di Nostra Signora del Suffragio e Santa Zita. Francesco Faà di Bruno sought Alessandro Antonelli’s advice for its design. Reaching 83 meters, it ranks as one of Turin’s tallest buildings.
Legend says Francesco Faà di Bruno intended its height to ensure workers knew the correct time. He designed a two-meter diameter clock on each of the campanile’s four faces. Positioned about 70 meters high, the time would be visible across the city.
The campanile’s mixed construction technique is unique. The lower half features brick masonry. The belfry above incorporates 32 cast iron columns. These amplify the bells’ sound and provide structural elasticity. Above the belfry, the masonry structure continues to a cusp. It supports a globe topped by an angel sounding a trumpet.
The campanile underwent restoration in 2010. This allowed the public to access it. Special nocturnal lighting enhances its visibility from afar. The Chiesa di Nostra Signora del Suffragio e Santa Zita stands not just as a place of worship. It embodies architectural innovation and social concern.