Chieri Cathedral

The Chieri Cathedral, known locally as the Colleggiata di Santa Maria della Scala, stands as a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Chieri, a charming town in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy. This grand edifice, which is the largest and principal church in Chieri, captivates visitors with its Gothic architecture, historical significance, and artistic treasures.

The History of Chieri Cathedral

The site of the Chieri Cathedral has been a place of worship since Roman times, when it was home to a temple dedicated to Minerva. Archaeological findings, including an altar discovered in the church's crypt, attest to its ancient origins. Between the 4th and 5th centuries, a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary was constructed on this sacred ground. This early Christian church laid the foundation for what would become a beacon of faith and artistry in the region.

In 1037, under the direction of Bishop Landolfo of Turin, a new Romanesque church dedicated to Santa Maria was built. However, it was in 1405 that the church underwent a significant transformation, evolving into the Gothic masterpiece we see today. This ambitious reconstruction, possibly overseen by Bernardo da Venezia, culminated in the cathedral's consecration in 1437. Over the centuries, the cathedral has seen various modifications, including Baroque alterations to its chapels and neo-Gothic restorations in the late 19th century.

Architectural Marvels

The exterior of the Chieri Cathedral is a striking example of Gothic architecture, characterized by its impressive brick façade. Dominating the front is the ghimberga, a large, pointed triangular pediment made of white stone that crowns the main portal. This portal once featured a polychrome marble statue of the Virgin and Child, known as the Madonna del Melograno, which has since been replaced by a replica and relocated to a chapel within the baptistery. At the pinnacle of the ghimberga is a sculpture of the Agnus Dei, symbolizing the Lamb of God.

The cathedral's bell tower, standing at 50 meters, was constructed in three distinct phases (1329, 1365, and 1492). At its base, two sundials mark the passage of time, adding to the tower's historical charm.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside the Chieri Cathedral reveals a vast interior with three naves and fifteen side chapels, many of which were refurbished during the Baroque period. These chapels house an array of Baroque and Flemish paintings, offering a visual feast for art enthusiasts.

One notable chapel is the Chapel of the Madonna, the third on the right side. During restoration work in 1880, 15th-century frescoes attributed to the artist Jacquerio were uncovered, providing a glimpse into the cathedral's rich artistic heritage. Another highlight is the Chapel of the Corpus Domini, decorated with stucco work by Tommaso Carlone in 1659, in collaboration with Francesco Garove, Giovanni Marocco, and Giovanni Luca Corbellini. This chapel also features paintings by Giovanni Antonio Mari, depicting scenes such as David dancing before the Ark and Abraham and the Three Angels.

The Chapel of the Madonna delle Grazie is adorned with two altarpieces commissioned from the painter Giuseppe Sariga in 1759, depicting the Plague of 1630 in Chieri. Sariga also painted the charming musical angels on the chapel's dome, embodying the Rococo style.

The cathedral's stained glass windows, redesigned between 1994 and 2005, are the work of artist Silvio Vigliaturo, adding a contemporary touch to this historical sanctuary.

The Crypt and Chapels

The crypt of the Chieri Cathedral preserves elements of the earlier structure and features a fresco of the Madonna and Child flanked by apostles Peter and Paul. This sacred space also serves as the final resting place for notable figures such as Giovanni Battista Lorenzo Bogino, Prospero Balbo, and Cesare Balbo.

The Gallieri Chapel, located at the base of the bell tower, was built between 1414 and 1418. Around 1420, an unknown master painted a series of frescoes depicting the Stories of Saint John the Baptist, which were restored in the 1950s. The chapel once housed the cathedral's treasure, including gold and silver reliquaries from the 12th to 15th centuries. Although a significant portion of the treasure was lost to theft in 1973, some items have been recovered and are stored securely, awaiting a new display.

The Baptistery

The baptistery, situated on the right side of the cathedral, dates back to the 13th century. Initially separate from the main church, it was integrated into the new 15th-century structure. In 1432, it came under the patronage of the Tana family, who used it as a burial site for a time. The baptismal font bears the Tana family crest and motto. Although the vault collapsed in 1829, the frescoes depicting the Passion of Christ, possibly by the Piedmontese painter Guglielmo Fantini, have been preserved. Roman remains have also been discovered beneath the baptistery's floor, adding another layer of historical intrigue to this remarkable cathedral.

In conclusion, the Chieri Cathedral, or Colleggiata di Santa Maria della Scala, is not just a place of worship but a repository of history, art, and architectural beauty. Its walls tell stories of ancient rites, artistic endeavors, and the enduring faith of the people of Chieri. A visit to this majestic cathedral is a journey through time, offering a profound appreciation of the cultural and spiritual heritage of this enchanting Italian town.