Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio is a neoclassical church at Piazza Gran Madre di Dio in Turin, built between 1818 and 1831 to mark the end of Napoleonic rule. Its design draws on Rome’s Pantheon, and the broad staircase gives you a view across Piazza Vittorio Veneto and along Via Po. Look for the statues of Faith and Religion beside the entrance, then step inside for a quieter visit. The church is a compact stop, especially if you are exploring this part of the city on foot.
Built after Napoleonic rule
Construction of the church ran from 1818 to 1831. It was built to celebrate the end of Napoleonic rule and the return to Turin of King Vittorio Emanuele I of Savoy.
Its neoclassical design takes inspiration from the Pantheon in Rome. The church stands at Piazza Gran Madre di Dio, at the end of Via Po.
The entrance and staircase
Two statues flank the access staircase: the one on the left represents Faith, and the one on the right represents Religion. The staircase also gives you a view across Piazza Vittorio Veneto and back along Via Po toward Palazzo Madama.
A statue with an outstretched hand holding a chalice has prompted speculation about a connection to the Holy Grail. Treat that as a local legend, not an established fact.
Preguntas frecuentes
Do you need a ticket to enter Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio?
No admission ticket is needed.
When is the best time to visit?
Evening is a good time to see the church lit up and enjoy the view from the stairs.
What do the statues at the entrance represent?
The statue on the left represents Faith, and the one on the right represents Religion.
