In 1706, at a time when Turin was threatened by siege and battle against enemy forces, Duke Vittorio Amedeo II climbed to the top of the Superga hill and made a solemn promise to the Madonna. His request for help became the beating heart of this story of faith. The Basilica, built in fulfillment of that vow, is the tangible symbol of a spirituality born from trust in God, capable of leading to salvation even in the most critical moments. This historical legacy lays the foundation for a profound reflection on the role of faith in daily life, transforming every visit into a journey of reflection and hope.
The Promise and the Origins: The Heart of Faith
In 1706, at a time when Turin was threatened by siege and battle against enemy forces, Duke Vittorio Amedeo II made a solemn vow to the Madonna. His plea for help, voiced from the heights of the Superga hill, became the beating heart of this story of faith. The Basilica, built to fulfill that vow, is the tangible symbol of a spirituality born from trust in the divine, capable of leading to salvation even in the most critical moments. This historical legacy lays the groundwork for a deep reflection on the role of faith in everyday life, transforming every visit into a journey of meditation and hope.
Architecture and Art: A Spiritual Language
The project created by Filippo Juvarra between 1717 and 1731 goes beyond mere architectural functionality: it is a hymn to light and mystery, elements that elevate the human spirit. The majestic dome, which rises 75 meters high, and the two symmetrical bell towers are not only expressions of aesthetic grandeur, but instruments through which the Basilica conveys a sense of harmony and sacredness. Inside, the skillful play of light and shadow, offered by the stucco decoration and marble details, invites the faithful to intimate contemplation. The works of art, an expression of the devotion of the masters of our time, tell stories of faith and propose Marian symbols.
The Spiritual Experience: An Invitation to Prayer
A visit to the Basilica of Superga immerses you in an atmosphere of peace, where every detail is designed to help in prayer. The representation of the Nativity of Mary, in the lap of St. Anne and St. Joachim, expresses the tenderness of life, the Annunciation of the angel to Mary recalls the Yes that we can say to our history, to our vocation. Festive celebrations and daily prayer are organized by the Fraternity of Sermig, which lives inside the monastery of the Basilica. Sunday Holy Mass is animated by the presence of a small choir. During the important times of the year, such as Advent and Christmas, Lent and Easter, paths are always proposed that are open to anyone who wants to participate.
An Invitation to the Basilica
The Basilica of Superga is much more than a work of art or a historical monument: it is a sanctuary that gathers the essence of spirituality and faith. Every visit, every glance, every prayer is a piece of a mosaic that has been able to cross the centuries, bringing light to the darkest moments and hope to every heart. We invite everyone to let themselves be enveloped by its atmosphere, to listen to the silent call of God and to discover, in every stone and in every work of art, a message of faith and discovery. Upon your arrival at the Basilica, the volunteers, the operators and the Fraternity of Sermig are at your disposal.