A suspended sanctuary that carries the soul of Reggio Calabria between earth and sky

A Symbol of Faith and Memory Rising from History

In the historic heart of Reggio Calabria, the Church of Jesus and Mary tells a powerful story of rebirth and faith. After the devastating earthquake of 1908, engineer Gino Zani rebuilt it on the same sacred site, giving new life to a place deeply rooted in the city’s soul. Today, elegant side stairways lead visitors to a graceful hanging loggia. Once inside, three radiant naves unfold, filling the space with light and a sense of spiritual elevation.

The church does not simply preserve history—it celebrates it. In the right nave, visitors encounter the funerary monument of Giuseppe Morisani, an 18th-century humanist who devoted his life to music, art, and archaeology. His presence still echoes through the walls, reflecting the cultural essence of Reggio Calabria. Moreover, the interior features a magnificent bronze Via Crucis, each panel exquisitely detailed, while the main altar, guarded by two sculpted Angels, reveals the refined artistry of Ennio Tesei, a Roman master of sacred sculpture.

Beneath the floor, however, lies another treasure. The crypt holds the “varette,” expressive papier-mâché and plaster statues crafted by the 18th-century Neapolitan school. Every Good Friday, these figures return to the streets in a solemn Easter procession, connecting the city’s past and present in a single act of devotion. The faithful follow in silence, their hearts moved by the rhythm of tradition.

Ultimately, the Church of Jesus and Mary stands not only as a monument of faith but also as a vibrant bridge between memory, beauty, and identity. Through its art and spirit, it invites every traveler to discover the eternal heartbeat of Reggio Calabria.