Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido, also known as Chiesa di Santa Maria Regina Pacis, stands as a majestic testament to faith and architectural brilliance in the charming coastal district of Lido di Ostia, Italy. This stunning church, with its regal presence and historical significance, invites visitors to explore its spiritual and artistic treasures, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
The origins of Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido are deeply intertwined with the tumultuous events of the early 20th century. The church was conceived by Cardinal Vincenzo Vannutelli, the bishop of Ostia, who envisioned it as a beacon of hope and a plea for peace during the devastating conflicts ravaging Europe at the time. The architectural genius behind this grand project was Giulio Magni, whose design would eventually become a symbol of resilience and faith.
Although the initial plans for the church were drawn up in 1916, it wasn't until June 21, 1919, that the first stone was laid. The construction process was prolonged due to financial constraints, taking nearly a decade to complete. The Augustinian Fathers from the Basilica of Sant'Aurea initially funded the project, but later, the Pallottine Fathers of the Society of the Catholic Apostolate took over the responsibility. The church was finally opened to the public on December 20, 1928, with a grand consecration ceremony.
Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido is an architectural gem, both inside and out. The church is strategically situated on the only hillock in Lido di Ostia, offering a commanding view of Piazza Regina Pacis. Its facade, facing southwest towards the sea, is a harmonious blend of simplicity and grandeur. The central section of the facade is adorned with intricate decorations, including a large arch supported by fluted Ionic columns. Above the entrance, you'll find a marble coat of arms of Cardinal Vannutelli and a magnificent stained glass window featuring the monogram of Christ. The facade is crowned with a triangular pediment bearing the coat of arms of Pope Pius XI.
The church's exterior is dominated by a stately bell tower near the right transept and an impressive octagonal dome rising to a height of 42 meters. The dome, with its severe yet elegant drum, features eight rectangular windows flanked by Tuscan columns, allowing natural light to flood the interior.
Stepping inside Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido, visitors are greeted by a Latin cross layout with a single nave, flanked by side chapels and a deep polygonal apse. The expansive nave, inspired by the transverse arm of the Roman Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Santi, boasts a barrel-vaulted ceiling with lunettes and three large tripartite windows on each side. Eight smooth Corinthian columns support the vault, adding to the sense of grandeur and stability.
The side chapels are equally captivating, with highlights including the Chapel of the Pietà, featuring a painted wooden statue, and the Chapel of Our Lady of Pompeii, with its elaborate neo-Baroque altar. The transept ends in two spacious rectangular niches, each supported by Corinthian columns and housing marble altars. The right transept altar showcases a modern painting of Saint Vincent Pallotti by Mario Rosati, while the left transept altar is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
The elevated presbytery occupies the entire polygonal apse, with a magnificent high altar adorned with polychrome marble in geometric patterns. Behind the altar, a marble retable features a niche with a statue of the Madonna and Child, flanked by red porphyry columns with gilded Corinthian capitals.
One of the most striking features of Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido is its collection of artistic stained glass windows, inaugurated in September 2007 during the parish's patronal feast. Crafted by the artisan Albano Poli using mouth-blown, first-choice polychrome glass from Lamberts, these windows are a visual feast. The central window above the entrance depicts the Paschal Christ, radiating the symbol of the eternal covenant represented by the colors of the rainbow. This powerful image serves as a reminder of the church's purpose—to stand as a monument to peace amidst the ravages of war.
Flanking this central masterpiece are windows depicting Saint Augustine of Hippo, the patron saint of Ostia Lido, and Saint Vincent Pallotti, the Roman priest who founded the Union of the Catholic Apostolate. The side windows feature two popes, John Paul II and Paul VI, and two lesser-known Polish martyrs, Blessed Jankowski and Blessed Stanek, whose lives and sacrifices are a testament to their unwavering faith.
No visit to Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido would be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring sounds of its pipe organ. Located in the choir loft at the back of the church, the Mascioni opus 862 organ was built in 1965 and features 26 registers, totaling approximately 1,900 pipes. The organ's electric transmission system and its console, with two 61-note keyboards and a 32-pedal concave-radial pedalboard, make it a musical marvel. The organ's Cecilian-style case adds to the visual and auditory splendor of the church's interior.
In conclusion, Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido is not just a place of worship; it is a living testament to faith, resilience, and artistic excellence. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of spiritual reflection, this magnificent church in Lido di Ostia offers a truly unforgettable experience. So, the next time you find yourself in this picturesque coastal town, be sure to step inside Santa Maria Regina Pacis a Ostia Lido and let its beauty and serenity envelop you.
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