Nestled in the charming streets of Cuneo, Italy, the Chiesa di Santa Croce stands as a testament to the Baroque architectural brilliance of the early 18th century. This captivating church, constructed between 1709 and 1715, is an embodiment of both spiritual devotion and artistic grandeur, drawing visitors into its embrace with its unique concave façade and rich historical tapestry.
The Chiesa di Santa Croce's design is attributed to the talented architect Antonio Bertola, with Francesco Gallo overseeing its construction. The church's façade is a striking feature, presenting a concave structure that creates a welcoming piazzetta, enhancing its inviting aura. This design choice, along with the abundance of Palladian arched windows, sets it apart from the more austere works of Gallo.
Inside, the church is organized around the intersection of two ellipses, creating a dynamic and engaging space. The interior decoration is a celebration of the Cross's significance in human salvation, with a series of fourteen paintings depicting the Triumphs of the Cross, illustrating its power against evil and danger.
In 1936, the Chapel of San Giuseppe Cottolengo was added, commemorating the centenary of the Cottolengo Sisters’ arrival to serve at the hospital. This chapel is a serene corner dedicated to the saint, reflecting the church's ongoing connection to acts of service and care.
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The dome of Santa Croce is a masterpiece of Baroque art, adorned with lunettes depicting the virtues of Faith, Hope, Charity, and Humility. Interspersed with cherubs, these images celebrate the virtues and merits of the Passion, guiding the viewer's gaze towards the representation of God the Father in the cupola’s light.
Historically significant, the Chapel of San Bernardino represents a fusion of the Confraternities of San Bernardino and Santa Croce. The chapel houses a remarkable altarpiece attributed to Moncalvo, depicting San Bernardino and San Nicola at the Madonna's feet. The chapel is also home to the Beato Angelo painting, a devotional focal point for the Monte di Pietà, reflecting the church's deep historical roots.
The presbytery, a bridge between the nave and the choir, is a focal point for liturgical action. Its polychrome marble and the intricately carved wooden tabernacle draw attention to the mysteries of the Passion. The sacristy, with its original walnut furnishings and a collection of 17th-century paintings, offers a glimpse into the church's rich artistic heritage.
The choir of Santa Croce, a space for devotion and assembly, is adorned with Baroque benches and a Gothic chair attributed to D. Tagliaferro. The ceiling, a tapestry of stuccoes, features the Exaltation of the Cross, with Passion Mysteries and the Deposition of Christ depicted in vivid detail. The altar painting, The Invention of the Cross by G. Galeotti, captures the miraculous discovery of the Cross, framed by a stunning marble and stucco design by F. Gallo.
The council hall, a multifunctional space, once housed the Confraternity's archives and served as a gathering place for charitable activities. The Suffrage Chapel, dedicated to the memory of the deceased, features artwork by A. Trono, depicting St. Michael and the souls in Purgatory, alongside a painting of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, patroness of the Confraternity's female branch.
The church's processional tradition is highlighted by two 18th-century wooden groups, including the Christ carrying the Cross and the Resurrected Christ, attributed to G. B. Bernero. The tribune, vibrantly decorated by P. A. Pozzi, supports the elegant wooden organ case, crafted by the Vittino brothers in 1899.
Chiesa di Santa Croce is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of Baroque art and architecture, a sanctuary of history, and a beacon of community spirit. Its walls echo with the prayers and hopes of centuries, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Cuneo. Whether you are an aficionado of art, history, or spirituality, Santa Croce offers a rich tapestry of experiences that promise to enlighten and inspire.
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