Nestled in the charming town of Conegliano, Italy, the Holy Virgin of Lourdes' Church, locally known as Chiesa della Beata Vergine di Lourdes, stands as a beacon of spiritual and architectural allure. This sacred edifice, a testament to 20th-century ecclesiastical architecture, is a must-see for anyone visiting the Veneto region.
The story of the Holy Virgin of Lourdes' Church begins in 1950 when a small chapel was established to serve the community in the plains northeast of the historic Giano Hill. Just four years later, in 1954, the current church structure was completed, designed by the visionary architect Riccardo Bertoja. This was a period of rapid growth and change, and the church quickly became a focal point for one of Conegliano's most vibrant parish communities.
The church's history is interwoven with the lives of its parishioners and the dedicated service of its clergy. Since September 21, 2009, M. don Pierluigi Cesca has been at the helm, following in the footsteps of his predecessor, M. don Lorenzo Garla. The church's choir, established in the same year as the church itself, continues to enrich services with its harmonious melodies, under the direction of Donata dalla Cia and organist Giuliana Zanette.
The Holy Virgin of Lourdes' Church is an exemplary piece of Conegliano's 20th-century sacred architecture. Its design is simple yet deeply spiritual, reminiscent of Lutheran evangelical churches. As you approach the church, the striking external vaults of the façade immediately capture your attention, inviting you to explore further.
The façade, coated in pristine white plaster, features a portico with three pointed arches, each leading to a separate portal. Above these, four tall, slender windows frame a high niche that houses a statue of the Madonna of Lourdes, creating a serene and welcoming presence.
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Inside, the church is a single nave, largely devoid of ornate art, which allows the few pieces present to stand out prominently. One such piece is the altar painting by Pino Casarini, a masterpiece composed of eleven panels. The central large panel depicts the Immaculate Conception, surrounded by ten smaller panels illustrating the Life of the Virgin. These images, set against a golden background, are highlighted beautifully against the church's white plastered walls.
The altar itself is crafted from marble and was initially conceived as a grotto dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Immaculate of Lourdes, designed to host the sacred statue of the Madonna.
One of the church's most fascinating features is its organ, a unique amalgamation of two historic instruments. The original organ, crafted by Domenico Malvestio in 1920, was combined with a Tamburini organ originally built for the Folcioni Institute in Crema in 1926. This union was realized in 1967 by the organ builder Silvano Girotto. After years of use, the organ underwent a significant restoration and expansion, completed in 2020, to celebrate the centenary of the Malvestio organ. The restoration added two new registers, enhancing the organ's already impressive range, and today, it boasts over 2,000 pipes.
Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, the Holy Virgin of Lourdes' Church is a lively hub of community activity. The parish is one of the most active in Conegliano, hosting a variety of events and gatherings that bring together people of all ages. The church's choir plays a central role in these activities, providing music for Sunday liturgies and other religious celebrations.
Visitors to the church are often struck by the warmth and vitality of the community, which is as much a part of the church's identity as its physical structure. Whether you're attending a service, listening to the choir, or simply taking in the serene atmosphere, the Holy Virgin of Lourdes' Church offers a glimpse into the heart of Conegliano's spiritual life.
The Holy Virgin of Lourdes' Church is more than just a religious building; it is a symbol of faith, community, and artistic expression. Its blend of architectural simplicity and spiritual depth makes it a captivating destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. As you explore Conegliano, make sure to visit this remarkable church and experience firsthand the tranquility and inspiration it offers.
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