Former Church of Saint Joseph, Como

Welcome to the Ex Church of San Giuseppe, a place of great significance for the city of Como. Located in the heart of the city, this church stands as a tangible example of the multiple cultural influences that have shaped Como’s history over the centuries. Founded in the 18th century, specifically in 1737, the church is known for its refined architecture and the works of art that adorn its interiors. Over the years, it has undergone numerous changes and adaptations that reflect the social and religious transformations of the area. The Ex Church of San Giuseppe is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the city’s history and a landmark for both residents and visitors. The origins of the Church of San Giuseppe date back to 1737, when the Catholic community of Como decided to build a church dedicated to San Giuseppe, the patron saint of workers and a revered figure in Christian art. The church was designed by architect Giuseppe Cattaneo, whose skill is reflected in the harmony and elegance of the structure. The construction took place under the aegis of the Regular Clerics of St. Paul, also known as Barnabites, who settled in Como to promote education and culture. The building was completed in 1746, and between the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th, the church experienced a phase of intense religious life. However, throughout the 19th century, the structure underwent significant transformations. Following the suppression of religious orders in 1866, the Barnabites left the church, and the building began to be used for various purposes. In the following years, it was often subject to restoration and renovation work to preserve its architectural integrity. Over the years, the Ex Church of San Giuseppe lost its original religious function. In the 1980s, the building was closed and later reopened as a cultural space. Today, it is used for events, concerts, and art exhibitions, keeping its role as a cultural landmark alive in the city of Como. Upon entering the Ex Church of San Giuseppe, you will immediately notice the Baroque facade, characterized by soft lines and refined decorations. The facade is adorned with a beautiful marble portal, distinguished by its ornamental details and the sculpture of San Giuseppe, which crowns the entrance. These elements reflect the craftsmanship of the time and the importance of the saint in Christian tradition. As you proceed inside, pay attention to the frescoed interiors. The ceilings are decorated with works that date back to the church’s periods of greatest splendor, illustrated with biblical scenes that narrate stories from Christian tradition. The frescoes, created by local artists, are an example of the artistic techniques of the 18th century and the religious devotion of the time. On the right side of the main altar, you can admire a fine wooden sculpture of San Giuseppe, made by a skilled local craftsman. This statue is a clear example of the mastery of Como sculptors, who were able to bring wood to life through minute details and realistic expressions. Take a close look at the faces and hands, which have been sculpted with great care to convey a message of love and protection. Another element not to be missed is the side chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Here, you will find a splendidly decorated Baroque altar, enriched with polychrome marbles and gilding that reflect the artistic wealth of the time. The decorations, the result of a careful restoration in recent years, will allow you to understand the artistic and religious fervor of Como in the 18th century. Don’t forget to take a walk around the inner perimeter of the church. The architecture of the columns and arches will give you an idea of the grandeur of the building, and it is interesting to note how natural light plays through the windows, creating suggestive effects within the space. This dialogue between light and architecture is one of the main characteristics of sacred buildings of the Baroque era. Finally, the view from the Ex Church of San Giuseppe is stunning. If you look out from the church windows, you can enjoy a unique perspective of the city of Como and its lake, which has fascinated artists and travelers for centuries. This natural scenery, combined with the historical architecture, offers an unforgettable sensory experience, drawing you closer to what Como represents in the broader context of Italian history and culture. The Ex Church of San Giuseppe is located in the center of Como, an area rich in history and culture. Near this fascinating building, we find the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a masterpiece of Lombard Gothic architecture and one of the main tourist attractions of the city. The cathedral, with its imposing facade and artistic treasures, tells the story of Como through centuries of art and architecture. Another important site nearby is the Broletto, the ancient town hall dating back to the 12th century. With its elegant porticoes and artistic decorations, it is an example of civic architecture of great historical importance. Its presence next to the church highlights the interconnectedness between religious and civil life in Como in past centuries. Finally, don’t forget to visit Lake Como, which is just a stone’s throw from the Ex Church of San Giuseppe. This splendid body of water, surrounded by mountains and picturesque villages, is one of the most beloved places by both residents and tourists. The lake offers a unique view of the natural beauty of the area, confirming the celebration of the Como landscape that has inspired countless poets and artists throughout history. An interesting fact relates to the restoration of the Ex Church of San Giuseppe that took place in the early 2000s. This intervention aimed not only to restore the architectural integrity of the church but also to reevaluate its cultural significance. During the work, some underlying frescoes that had been covered in previous decades were discovered. These findings rekindled interest in the church and led to a new phase of enhancement of the artistic heritage. Moreover, the church housed an important library founded by the Barnabites, which contained rare texts and manuscripts. Unfortunately, this library has been dispersed over time, signifying the rich cultural life that characterized the religious institution. Finally, the opening event of the church as a cultural space marked an important revitalization for the neighborhood, stimulating local initiatives and promoting contemporary art in a historical context, creating a dialogue between past and present that enriches the cultural life of the city.