“A parish alive with 150 years of history.” Does that sound intriguing? Right here before us stands the Sacro Cuore di Gesù in Torino. This is not just another church but a vibrant part of the San Salvario neighborhood.
Sacro Cuore di Gesù serves many roles. It is a sanctuary. People come here to experience the liturgy and nurture their faith. It is also a meeting place. The Oratory brings together young people and adults in the area. Furthermore Sacro Cuore di Gesù is a source of support. The Soup Kitchen offers meals and assistance to those in need.
The Sacro Cuore di Gesù has deep roots. Its story began 150 years ago. This history is intertwined with the neighborhood’s development. San Salvario transformed from a rural area into a bustling urban center.
The parish has lived through much. It spans two centuries. It has witnessed two world wars. Also it has faced two pandemics. One was the Spanish Flu. The other was COVID-19.
The Sacro Cuore di Gesù has always been a large community. Over time the church expanded. Structures were added to serve the community better. These include the Soup Kitchen. There is also the Oratory. Not to forget the cinema and the football field.
In 1867 Canon Lorenzo Gastaldi made a pivotal decision. Later he became the Archbishop of Torino. He allowed the Capuchin Friars to use his farmhouse. It was known as “La Pertusa.” This included a newly built chapel near Barriera di Nizza.
The Capuchins committed to maintaining the church. They agreed to celebrate Mass at their own expense. Architect Edoardo Arborio Mella began designing a new church. It was commissioned by Monsignor Gastaldi.
Monsignor Gastaldi laid the first stone in 1873. In 1876 the church was complete. It was dedicated to the Sacro Cuore di Gesù. Father Elezario da Tronzano became the first Rector. Andrea Gastaldi created an altarpiece in 1878. It depicted the vision of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque.
The Sacro Cuore di Gesù officially became a parish in 1878. The sacristy and parish offices were built. This took place between 1884 and 1887. A grand organ was installed in 1886. It was made by the Vegezzi Bossi firm.
The bell tower was completed. This happened between 1889 and 1890. Bells from the Mazzola foundry were added. The Soup Kitchen opened in 1905 providing essential aid to the poor.
Architectural changes took place from 1907 to 1911. A new apse was built. The presbytery was expanded. All the woodwork was created. Stained glass windows were installed. Cardinal Richelmy dedicated a statue to the Sacred Heart in 1910.
The Sacro Cuore di Gesù was granted the title of Sanctuary. This was in December 1910. In 1911 the church was consecrated. Side altars were inaugurated in 1923.
Through world wars and social changes the Sacro Cuore di Gesù remained a constant. It is a symbol of faith. Also it is a place of community for the people of Torino. The Sacro Cuore di Gesù continues its mission today. It addresses the needs of the San Salvario neighborhood.