Church of San Filippo Neri

The Church of San Filippo Neri in Turin is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture and one of the most significant places of worship in the city. Located on Via Maria Vittoria, the church represents the largest religious building in Turin, with a length of 69 meters and a width of 37 meters. Construction began in 1675 based on the design of architect Antonio Bettini, at the request of the Congregation of the Oratory of San Filippo Neri, an order founded by the saint himself with the intention of promoting spiritual life through music and prayer. The church was completed in the 18th century thanks to the intervention of Filippo Juvarra, one of the most illustrious architects of Piedmontese Baroque. Juvarra, tasked with completing the facade and interiors, introduced a series of innovative architectural solutions that made the church a masterpiece of Italian Baroque. The facade, later completed by Ernesto Camusso in 1891, features an imposing Corinthian portico that gives the building an unparalleled grandeur. The interior of the church is characterized by a single nave covered by a barrel vault, supported by elliptical side chapels. The main altar is a work of great artistic value, with an altarpiece created by the renowned cabinetmaker Pietro Piffetti in 1749. This wooden antependium, made of ivory, mother-of-pearl, and precious stones, is one of the finest examples of decorative art of the period. The side chapels house a series of valuable paintings, including works by Francesco Solimena and Enrico Reffo. One of the most fascinating elements of the church is the organ, located to the right of the main altar. Built by the Serassi brothers in 1831 and later expanded by Carlo Vegezzi Bossi, the organ has 39 stops and a mechanical transmission, and has recently been restored to preserve its integrity and sound quality. The church is also linked to the figure of Blessed Sebastiano Valfrè, whose body rests in the seventeenth-century cemetery crypt, restored in 2006. Valfrè, known for his devotion to the Holy Shroud and his role during the siege of Turin in 1706, is depicted in various paintings inside the church, celebrating his life and works. The urban context in which the church is located is equally fascinating. Piazza San Filippo Neri, directly in front of the building, is a lively meeting place surrounded by elegant historic buildings, cafes, and shops. The square, also designed by Guarino Guarini, offers a harmonious space that enhances the magnificence of the church and invites visitors to linger and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the place. During the summer months, the square transforms into an open-air theater, hosting cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions that further enrich the visitors’ experience. The Borgo Po neighborhood, where the church is located, is known for its historical and cultural character. The cobbled streets and period buildings create an authentic and welcoming atmosphere, with numerous trattorias and restaurants offering typical dishes of the Piedmontese tradition. The local market, held every Saturday morning in Piazza della Repubblica, is an unmissable opportunity to discover the flavors and artisanal products of the region. The Church of San Filippo Neri is easily accessible due to its central location and proximity to major public transport. For those arriving by car, parking is available nearby. Guided tours, offered at scheduled times, allow visitors to delve into the history, architecture, and artworks of the church, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who share anecdotes and curiosities.