Discovering the Sanctuary of Consolata of the Barnabites in Chieri: Faith, History, and Adventure

Immerse yourself in a journey of faith and discovery in the heart of Piedmont, in search of the traces of the lost Sanctuary of Consolata of the Barnabites in Chieri. A place steeped in history, art, and spirituality, where the prayers of the faithful still resonate through the folds of time. Although the church no longer exists, its memory and the legacy of the saints who animated it continue to live on.

An Ambitious Project Interrupted by Time

In the distant year of 1723, the city of Chieri was adorned with a new gem: the Sanctuary of Consolata, the result of the ingenuity of the Barnabite father Pomei and the talent of Riccati and Rocca, to whom the adjoining college is attributed. A grand religious complex, destined to become a beacon of faith and culture.

The chronicles of the time tell of a church rich in art and devotion, with a main altar that housed the remains of Saint Defendente, a Theban martyr venerated for his unwavering faith and his protection against natural calamities. But the beating heart of the sanctuary was the chapel dedicated to the Madonna of Loreto, a faithful replica, in size, of the Holy House.

The Madonna of Loreto: A Treasure of Faith and Beauty

Within the walls of the chapel, a statue of the Madonna of Loreto shone, a work of art commissioned by Father Antonio Maria Carlevaris, a prominent figure of the Barnabite order and author of the “Life of Saint Rosalia in Italian Rhymes.” Bosio, in his “Historical-Religious Memories,” describes it as “adorned with precious stones,” a treasure of faith and beauty that enchanted pilgrims.

In the Footsteps of the Barnabites: History and Devotion

The Barnabites, who arrived in Chieri in 1624 thanks to the testamentary will of Count Vagnone, brought with them their charisma of apostolate and education. Their presence in the city was abruptly interrupted during the Napoleonic period, when the order was suppressed, and in 1833, the church and the college were destroyed. Today, the memory of these religious figures and their work is entrusted to history and popular devotion.

Key Moments:

• 1624: Testament of Count Vagnone and arrival of the Barnabites in Chieri.
• 1711: Laying of the sanctuary’s foundation stone.
• 1723: Inauguration of the college.
• 1833: Destruction of the religious complex.

Clues of a Glorious Past: An Adventurous Search

Despite the destruction of the sanctuary, the echo of its presence continues to resonate through the streets of Chieri. Embark on a search for clues, for hidden traces that may reveal the history of this sacred place. Question the locals, consult historical archives, explore the surroundings: you might uncover unpublished details and curious anecdotes about the life of the sanctuary and its protagonists.

Begin Your Search:

• Delve into the figure of Count Vagnone and his role in the arrival of the Barnabites in Chieri.
• Seek information on the Vagnoni family and their possible patronage of the sanctuary.
• Investigate the life and works of Father Antonio Maria Carlevaris and his devotion to Saint Rosalia.
• Gather testimonies about the presence of ex-votos in the sanctuary and their significance to the faithful.

Saint Defendente: The Protector of Chieri

A highly venerated saint in this sanctuary was Saint Defendente, a martyr from the early Christian centuries and one of the patron saints of the city of Chieri, he was especially invoked to protect crops and the population from natural disasters. His story, although shrouded in legend, testifies to the unwavering faith of the early Christians and their courage in the face of persecution. Delving into his figure means rediscovering the Christian roots of the territory and the deep bond between the community and its patron saints.

An Invitation to Rediscovery

The Sanctuary of Consolata of the Barnabites is not just a memory of the past, but an invitation to rediscover the richness of the history, art, and faith of the Chieri region. A spiritual and cultural adventure that will lead you to discover hidden treasures and forgotten stories. May your search be guided by curiosity, passion, and devotion.

Via della Consolata, 10023 Chieri TO, Italy