The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Turin is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Turin, Italy. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Turin, and is one of the most important religious buildings in the city. The cathedral was built in the 11th century and is an example of Romanesque architecture. It has been modified over the centuries, with the addition of Gothic and Baroque elements, but its essential structure has remained intact.
History
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist was built in the 11th century, during the reign of King Berengar I of Italy. It is believed to have been built on the site of an earlier church, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1030. The current cathedral was consecrated in 1097, and was built in the Romanesque style. The façade was later modified in the Gothic style, with the addition of a rose window and other decorative elements. The interior of the cathedral was also modified over the centuries, with the addition of Baroque elements.
Architecture
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is an example of Romanesque architecture, with a Latin cross plan. The main façade is composed of two parts: the lower part is in the Romanesque style, while the upper part is in the Gothic style. The main entrance is flanked by two towers, which are both in the Romanesque style. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with a variety of elements, including marble columns, stained glass windows, and frescoes. The most notable feature of the interior is the grand marble staircase, which leads to the high altar.
Notable Features
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is home to a number of notable features, including:
- The Chapel of the Holy Shroud: This chapel houses the Shroud of Turin, believed by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ.
- The Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre: This chapel is a replica of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
- The Treasury: The Treasury contains a number of important works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and religious artifacts.
- The Crypt: The Crypt is a small chapel located beneath the main church. It contains the tombs of several important figures, including kings and archbishops.
Events
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is the site of several important religious events, including:
- The Feast of Saint John the Baptist: This feast is held every year on June 24th, and is celebrated with a Mass and a procession through the streets of Turin.
- The Feast of the Assumption: This feast is held every year on August 15th, and is celebrated with a Mass and a procession through the streets of Turin.
- The Turin Easter Procession: This procession is held every year on Easter Sunday, and is attended by thousands of people.
Conclusion
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Turin is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture, and is one of the most important religious buildings in the city. It is home to a number of important works of art, and is the site of several important religious events. It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Turin.