Tempio Valdese di Roma, Protestant temple near Piazza Cavour, Rome, Italy
The Tempio Valdese is a Protestant temple near Piazza Cavour with a distinctive white facade and two towers. Built in 1911 from reinforced concrete, it houses a theology faculty, a bookstore, and spaces for community activities.
Construction of this temple faced opposition from Pope Pius X, who repeatedly tried to prevent its establishment through appeals to Rome's mayor. Despite this resistance, the building was completed and marked an important shift for Protestant presence in the city.
The interior features Art Nouveau decorations with stained glass windows and a large mosaic in the apse depicting biblical scenes. These artistic elements reflect the place's importance as a center for Protestant life in Rome.
The temple is easy to reach and located in a central area near the Tiber River. Visitors should note that some areas are only open during services or special events.
The wooden pulpit inside displays names of reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin alongside Italian precursors like Arnold of Brescia. This arrangement documents the historical connection between early church critics and the modern Protestant movement.
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