Concattedrale Gran Madre di Dio, Modern cathedral in Taranto, Italy
The Concattedrale Gran Madre di Dio is a modern cathedral in Taranto with a white concrete facade marked by geometric openings that give it a sail-like form. The building spans approximately 87 meters long and 35 meters high, and inside it provides multiple spaces for worship, including a dedicated chapel for military naval personnel.
Architect Gio Ponti designed the building between 1967 and 1970 to serve alongside the older Castellaneta Cathedral. Its completion marked a shift in the city's religious infrastructure and reflected the architectural innovations of that period.
The interior features sea-green tones and maritime symbols that reflect Taranto's deep connection to the Mediterranean. This design choice shapes the feeling of the space and links the religious purpose to the city's maritime identity.
The building is easy to access and the chapel for naval personnel is located on the left side of the entrance. Visitors should note that as an active place of worship, respectful dress is expected and the spaces are used for both services and quiet reflection.
Three reflecting pools in front of the structure mirror its white concrete walls, creating a visual link between the building and its surroundings. The approximately 80 geometric openings are not merely decorative but allow natural light to filter into the interior in a thoughtful way.
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