The Cristo Re Cathedral is the most important Catholic place of worship in La Spezia, serving as the cathedral for the diocese of La Spezia-Sarzana and Brugnato. La Spezia became an episcopal see in 1927 when Pope Pius XI established the new diocese of Luni, which encompasses La Spezia, Sarzana, and Brugnato. The site chosen for construction was the flattened hilltop which had been demolished in those same years to connect the historical quarters, and where previously there had been a Capuchin convent.
The first building, dedicated to the Pilgrim Madonna, was completed on March 22, 1954. A new design was commissioned to the architect Adalberto Libera in 1956. The cornerstone was laid in 1960. Following Libera’s death in 1963, the building was still unfinished, and the continuation of the work was entrusted to the local architect Cesare Galeazzi, who completed it in 1975.
The Cristo Re cathedral was consecrated and dedicated to Christ the King of the Ages on May 3, 1975, by Bishop Giuseppe Stella, with Cardinal Giuseppe Siri present. The exterior of the imposing building is marked by its circular plan and is completely devoid of decorations.
Inside, it is supported by twelve columns, each eight meters high, representing the twelve apostles. The building features a lowered dome with a diameter of 50 meters and a marble floor. It can accommodate up to 2,500 people and is illuminated by a large polychrome dome and a perimeter window.
Staying at Downtown Blue Apartment, you can easily reach this unique and beautiful Cristo Re cathedral.