In part four of the series, join Esther Law as she embarks on a soul-stirring journey through Turin’s sacred sites, where history, faith, and reflection come to life.
A pilgrimage through faith and history
As Esther Law laced up her shoes for another day in the historical city of Turin, a mix of excitement and serenity settled within her.
Each step in this majestic city deepened her connection — not just to her surroundings but to her faith.
Building on the last two weeks’ reflections on the Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians, Law was eager to share her experiences at Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte and the city’s profound impact on her spiritual journey.
Walking through time, devotion
She began her solo walking tour, EarPods in ear, shutting out the city’s chaos. The cold air nipped at her cheeks, invigorating her as she began her journey at the Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians, taking a short stroll toward Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte.
Nestled on a hill, the church overlooked the city with an air of quiet elegance. As she approached, she couldn’t help but admire the stunning views of Turin. She was struck by the overwhelming peace of this sacred space.
Inside Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte, she marvelled at its beauty and simplicity. One of its most significant aspects was its housing of the relic of St Ignatius of Santhiá, a truly remarkable figure in the history of the church.
Born Lorenzo Maurizio Belvisotti in 1686, he had transitioned from a diocesan priest to a Capuchin, fully embracing a life of obedience, simplicity, and humility that reflected the Franciscan spirit.
Law was most struck by his devotion to spiritual guidance, especially his compassion for the “spiritually sick.” It was humbling to consider how he dedicated his life to helping lost souls, offering them guidance and understanding.
His connection with the wounded in war and plague showed not just faith but deep love for humanity.
St Ignatius did not merely preach; he embodied the gospel through relentless service. Law admired how he forged personal connections with novices, teaching them through example rather than mere words. What a beautiful approach to mentorship, she thought.
She paused to reflect on St Ignatius, a man who transformed his life — and countless others’.
His journey served as a reminder that all could strive to be more Christ-like in their interactions. His mantra, “Paradise is not made for slackers. Let’s get to work!” deeply resonated with her, encouraging a proactive approach in her spiritual journey.
Ignatius of Santhiá stood as an inspiring model of compassion and commitment, motivating her to adopt some of his values in her own life.
The church pulsed with the faith of those who came before her, seeking guidance and inspiration. She could almost sense the waves of prayers that had been lifted to the heavens within its walls.
After reflecting on the relic, she stepped outside onto the site of the 2006 Winter Olympics, where the backdrop of the majestic Alps still held the echoes of triumph and excitement.
An Olympic fire bowl replica stood proudly, reminding her of the unity and spirit displayed during those games.
She paused to appreciate how history intertwined with faith, sports, and community. Wasn’t that what life was about? she mused — coming together in different spaces, celebrating triumphs, and navigating challenges hand in hand.
A short walk later, she arrived at the Church of St Dominic. The solemnity of this place felt alive. Here, she couldn’t help but reflect on the centuries of history — of faith, struggle, and hope — that permeated the walls.
It was a poignant reminder of all the saints and everyday believers who had come before her, searching for solace and understanding in turbulent times.
The next stop was the Church of the Capuchins, but her heart was drawn toward her ultimate destination: the Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista (the Cathedral of St John the Baptist).
Standing as a magnificent representation of Gothic architecture, it was a testament to the enduring faith of its people.
Constructed in the late 15th century, this sacred space served as the seat of the Archdiocese of Turin and a focal point for numerous religious activities. As she walked through its hallowed halls adorned with stunning chapels and intricate frescoes, the weight of centuries of devotion became palpable.
The shroud’s enduring mystery
One could not visit the Turin Cathedral without acknowledging the enigmatic Shroud of Turin, housed within its royal chapel.
This linen cloth, measuring approximately 14 feet long and 3.5 feet wide, was widely believed to bear the image of Jesus Christ, depicting a man who suffered physical trauma consistent with crucifixion.
The history of the shroud remained shrouded in mystery, first appearing in records in the 14th century and drawing immense interest and debate among historians, theologians, and scientists alike.
The artefact had been in Turin, Italy, since the 17th century, but its roots traced back to the Middle Ages; its exact origin remained an enigma.
Law found the shroud endlessly captivating. For many, it was more than fabric — it was a tangible link to Jesus’ suffering and love. The intricate image evoked deep emotions, sparking thoughts about sacrifice, faith, and redemption.
While science had debated its authenticity — radiocarbon dating suggested a medieval origin — many still clung to their belief in its sacredness.
What struck her most was the idea of the shroud as a mirror of human experience. It captured the pain and suffering that were part of life while also serving as a symbol of hope.
Whether viewed as a relic or a historical artefact, the Shroud of Turin invited reflection on suffering, faith, and the profound mystery of life and death, urging contemplation of one’s own journey in a world filled with uncertainty.
As she gazed upon the shroud, she couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the mystery surrounding it. The thought that the image etched onto that cloth told a story of suffering, sacrifice, and redemption gripped her deeply.
It was a powerful reminder of Jesus’ love, not only for her but for all humanity. A pause to contemplate the weight of such significance sent chills down her spine. Every crease, every detail on the shroud, spoke to a life laid down for love.
She found herself reflecting on her own struggles and how they paled in comparison to what Christ had endured.
The shroud reflected how pain and hope intertwine, with healing often following suffering.
Her heart swelled with reverence as she acknowledged that, in her quest for faith, pain was sometimes a necessary part of the journey — a pathway to growth and understanding.
Carrying the journey forward
As she walked through the streets of Turin, moving from one sacred site to another, she felt an expansion of spirit.
The intertwining histories of the city — from its rich past as the first capital of Italy to its Renaissance art and its role in pivotal historical events — imbued her with a sense of connection to something larger.
It was humbling to share this space with so many echoes of history, each contributing to her personal narrative of faith.
Reflecting on her three-day, two-night stay in Turin from November 14 to 16, 2023, she realised how deeply the city had shaped her spiritual journey.
Every turn, every stone beneath her feet, felt like an invitation to awaken her faith — to find where it fit in her life’s puzzle.
As she prepared to leave for Switzerland, she carried with her not only warm memories but also a renewed sense of purpose and insight.
Her journey in Turin had been more than a physical exploration; it was a rekindling of her spirit. The experiences she had in this city encouraged her to carry forth the lessons learned, the insights gained, and the faith deepened during her time there.
As she moved on to Switzerland, she felt empowered, ready to embrace each moment, and open to wherever her path would lead next. With every experience, she found herself one step closer to the divine understanding she sought.
