Modern Church in Mormanno

The new parish church of Santa Maria Goretti, secluded, serene and monolithic, rises on the northern outskirts of the Calabrian mountain town of Mormanno, offering picturesque views of the Pollino Mountain National Park.

Современная церковь в Морманно

The laconic exterior forms of the temple, designed by the architectural studio Mario Cucinella, are inspired by the surrounding landscapes and the strict architecture of traditional apsidal Calabrian churches built by immigrants from Byzantium fleeing from conquest and persecution. 

Современная церковь в Морманно

Dedicated to Saint Maria Goretti (1890-1902), the youngest saint of the Catholic Church, the church looks like part of the surrounding landscape, whose architecture is timeless. 

Современная церковь в Морманно

Resembling a rounded cross or a four-leaf clover in plan, it greets visitors with a high cross cut through the facade. In the evening, when light pours from the temple, the shining cross is visible from afar, like a lighthouse. One fragment of the walls framing the cross, as if “bent” inside – inviting parishioners to come in.

Современная церковь в Морманно

The solid interior of the building is illuminated by overhead light “flowing down” through translucent draperies under the ceiling. The entrance for the priests is made through the sacristy behind the altar, which is hidden behind curved walls. Church bells are also hidden in the walls.

Современная церковь в Морманно

Inside, the connection between art and architecture continues. Reflecting the smooth shapes of the walls, the artist Giuseppe Maraniello created a lectern, a tabernacle, a baptismal font and a figure of the Virgin Mary from stone, bronze and mosaics.

Современная церковь в Морманно

The furniture made of wood and steel by Mario Cucinella Design is minimal and strict to emphasize the architectural and sculptural elements of the church interior. 

Современная церковь в Морманно

In addition to the constant play of daylight provided by hanging curtains from the ceiling, on July 6, the feast of St. Maria Goretti, a ray of sunlight falls directly on the crucifix mounted on the wall behind the altar. And nature, art, architecture, faith and symbolism merge into a single spiritual image.

Современная церковь в Морманно

Like any modern building, the church is as energy efficient as possible, the roof is covered with grass, and there is an organic vegetable garden nearby. Adjacent to the church is a parish complex of laconic forms, whose roof line echoes the smooth “petals” of the church itself, which connects them into a single ensemble. 

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