Church of the Visitation

The Church of the Visitation in Turin, located in the historic center of the city, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, the result of the project by architect Francesco Lanfranchi. Built between 1650 and 1660, the church is a silent witness of a historical period characterized by intense social and political changes, as well as by a fervent artistic activity. The origin of the church is linked to the Order of the Visitation, founded by St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane Frances de Chantal. The Visitation Sisters arrived in Turin in 1638, finding a warm welcome from the population and local authorities. It was this religious community that promoted the construction of a new church, dedicated to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, an event that celebrates Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. The architecture of the church reflects the Piedmontese Baroque style, characterized by a sober elegance but rich in ornamental details. The facade, simple but imposing, features a central portal framed by Corinthian columns, topped by a triangular pediment. The facade was designed to be in harmony with the surrounding urban environment, helping to define the character of the neighborhood. Upon entering the church, one is welcomed by a bright and harmonious interior, dominated by a central plan with a single nave and side chapels. The main altar is a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture, richly decorated with polychrome marbles and statues of angels and saints. Behind the altar, a large fresco depicts the Visitation, the work of a local painter from the 17th century, who with his skillful use of light and color manages to create an atmosphere of intense spirituality. The side chapels house various works of art of great value, including paintings and sculptures representing scenes from the life of Christ and the saints. One of the most notable chapels is dedicated to St. Francis de Sales, decorated with frescoes depicting episodes from the saint’s life and his charitable works. The history of the church is closely linked to the history of Turin and the political and social events that have characterized the city. During the French occupation of Piedmont, the church suffered significant damage and was used for purposes other than religious ones. Only with the Restoration and the return of the House of Savoy, the church could be restored and returned to the religious community. An interesting episode concerns the transformation of the convent attached to the church into a hospital during a cholera epidemic in the 19th century. The Visitation Sisters, along with doctors and volunteers, provided assistance to the sick, demonstrating great spirit of sacrifice and dedication. This event helped strengthen the bond between the church and the Turin community, which still remembers with gratitude the work of the sisters.