Church of San Carlo

In the charming town of Brugherio, Italy, lies the Church of San Carlo, known locally as Chiesa di San Carlo. This modern yet spiritually rich sanctuary is nestled on Via Pier Giorgio Frassati, in the western part of the town. The Church of San Carlo is a testament to the community's dedication and faith, offering a serene place for worship and reflection.

The History of the Church of San Carlo

The roots of the Church of San Carlo trace back to the late 20th century. The need for a new church in the expanding western part of Brugherio was first envisioned by Don Franco Perlatti in 1969. By 1982, Don Franco had begun rallying support and funds from the parishioners of San Bartolomeo, emphasizing the necessity of a new place of worship to accommodate the growing community.

The land on which the church stands was generously donated by the Cazzaniga family, specifically Paola Viganò, the widow of Cazzaniga. This 10,000 square meter plot provided ample space not only for the church itself but also for a rectory, catechism classrooms, and recreational areas for both indoor and outdoor activities.

Construction began in earnest in 1987, with initial services held in a temporary location provided by the Brugherio municipal administration. The project was funded entirely by the generosity of the local community, with numerous fundraising initiatives spearheaded by Don Franco. The architectural design was entrusted to local professionals, including architects Alberto Brivio, Ferdinando Caprotti, and Carlo Magni, along with engineer Giuseppe Gatti. Their dedication and expertise culminated in the laying of the first stone on June 16, 1991.

The Church of San Carlo officially opened its doors on April 19, 1992, coinciding with Easter Sunday. The first parish priest, Don Mario Ferrario, was appointed in December of that year. The church was consecrated by Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini on April 27, 1996, solidifying its place as a spiritual haven for the community. Over the years, the church has continued to grow and evolve, with various priests contributing to its vibrant pastoral life.

Architectural Highlights

The Church of San Carlo is a striking example of modern ecclesiastical architecture. Its design is characterized by the centrality of the altar, which is the focal point towards which all architectural lines converge. The building's upward thrust is accentuated by the magnificent wooden beams of the roof, creating a sense of ascension and spiritual elevation.

The church's floor plan is a square with the main axis running diagonally, resulting in three distinct volumes that ideally divide the space into three naves. The central nave features a sail-like roof that culminates in the bell tower, while the two side naves have lower roofs. The exterior is adorned with a brick narthex that symbolizes the embrace of God towards the ecclesial community.

Inside, the church boasts a single nave, facilitating the participation of the entire congregation in the celebrations. The spacious presbytery is elevated by three steps, forming a semicircle that creates a seamless connection between the altar and the nave. The church can accommodate 450 seated worshippers, with additional seating available for larger gatherings.

The Flooring

The flooring of the Church of San Carlo is a masterpiece in itself, designed by Antonio Teruzzi. It features a stylized tree that symbolizes life beyond time and space. The branches are crafted using the seminato technique, while the trunk is a mosaic of marble tesserae. This imagery represents the temporal and salvific journey from Creation to the coming of Christ, making the path from the entrance to the altar a symbolic passage from darkness to light.

The tree's trunk is adorned with stones marking significant events in the history of salvation, with each stone representing a day of Creation as described in Genesis. The mosaic also depicts the genealogies from Adam to Jesus, linking the past to the present in a continuous spiral of life and faith.

The Altar

The altar is the heart of the Church of San Carlo, visible from every point within the congregation. Illuminated by a zenithal light, it serves as a beacon of faith. The altar is not oriented to the east due to urban constraints, but it remains the central element of worship. The front of the altar features an image of a tree with twelve branches, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's gifts to the Apostles and, through them, to all humanity. The stained glass window above the altar echoes this tree motif, reinforcing the theme of spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The Tabernacle and Ambo

Both the tabernacle and ambo are located in the presbytery. The tabernacle is housed within a structure of Carrara and French Red marble, with three distinct elements enclosing the door. The ambo, made from the same polychrome marble, opens towards the congregation like a great book, symbolizing the Word of God.

The Baptismal Font

The baptismal font, also designed by Antonio Teruzzi, is octagonal in shape, symbolizing resurrection and eternal life. Located on the left side of the church, the descending steps signify penance, while the ascent represents resurrection. The font is illuminated by a zenithal light, highlighting its importance in the sacrament of baptism.

Holy Water Fonts

Situated at the sides of the entrance, the holy water fonts invite worshippers to bless themselves upon entering the sacred space, a ritual that signifies purification and readiness for worship.

The Church of San Carlo in Brugherio is more than just a place of worship; it is a vibrant community hub that embodies the faith, dedication, and spirit of its parishioners. Its modern design, rich symbolism, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the spiritual and cultural heritage of this charming Italian town.