Situated in the heart of Lissone, the Duomo di Lissone, officially known as the Chiesa prepositurale dei Santi Pietro e Paolo, stands as a magnificent testament to the town's rich heritage and architectural prowess. This grand structure, often referred to as the Gésa Grànda by locals, is the largest place of worship in Lissone and the entire Monza area, drawing visitors from near and far to marvel at its splendor.
The Duomo di Lissone is a striking example of eclectic architectural style, blending elements of neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque design with the distinctive features of Lombard architecture. Completed in 1926, the church replaced the previous prepositurale, which was demolished to make way for this grand edifice. The church's imposing presence is accentuated by its location on Piazza Giovanni XXIII, right in the historic center of Lissone.
The exterior of the Duomo di Lissone is a sight to behold, with its grand facade of exposed red bricks. The monumental wooden portal is flanked by intricate mosaics depicting Christ the King and the Apostles Peter and Paul, which sit above secondary portals of notable sculptural value. At the top of the facade, a long and elegant loggia runs across, adding to the church's majestic appearance.
Adjacent to the right wing of the church rises the slender and elegant bell tower, which houses nine bells and a luminous clock. Just below the spire, crowned by a statue of an angel, visitors can access the belvedere, offering panoramic views that stretch from the Milanese plains to the Prealps of the Lecco and Como areas. The golden angel atop the bell tower is a beloved symbol for the people of Lissone, believed to protect the city.
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Stepping inside the Duomo di Lissone, one is immediately struck by the sheer number of artistic monuments. The marble baptismal font, topped by a wooden temple crafted by Ambrogio Fossati and protected by an elegant wrought iron gate, is a highlight. The pulpit, a large suspended crucifix in the central dome arch, and the altars dedicated to the Madonna, Saint Joseph, Saint Hilary, and the Crucifix are just a few of the many treasures within.
Before reaching the apse with the grand marble high altar, visitors encounter two bronze statues of candle-bearing angels, works by sculptor Carlo Rigola. The high altar itself is a masterpiece, featuring three spires, each housing a marble statue: the central one depicting Jesus Christ, flanked by the statues of the collegiate's patron saints. During major celebrations, six gilded statues of saints adorn the high altar.
The church also houses bronze statues of the patron saints of Italy, Saint Francis and Saint Catherine of Siena, alongside sculptures of Saint Anthony of Padua, Saint Rita, and Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein). The dome, with its interior gilded in gold leaf, is another awe-inspiring feature, crowned by a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit.
Behind the high altar lies the wooden choir, a work by local craftsman Angelo Arosio (known as Genola) and carver Orlando Fiscon. Decorated with bronzes by artist Otello Montaguti depicting scenes from the lives of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, the choir also bears the names of the parish priests and provosts who have led the prepositurale over the centuries.
The Duomo di Lissone is home to numerous artistic treasures, including the high altar, the Crucifix altar, the Saint Hilary altar, the Madonna altar, and the Saint Joseph altar. The wooden pulpit, the wooden choir behind the high altar, and the marble baptismal font with its wooden temple and wrought iron gate are also noteworthy. Bronze statues of Saint Francis and Saint Catherine, as well as wooden statues of Saint Rita, Saint Anthony of Padua, and Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, add to the church's rich artistic heritage.
Other significant pieces include the confessional known as the Monsignor Prevosto's confessional and other wooden confessionals, historical tapestries in the Madonna chapel, and a 1702 altarpiece by painter Federico Panza depicting the Immaculate Virgin. The golden angel atop the bell tower is another iconic symbol of the church.
The Duomo di Lissone plays a central role in the town's religious life, with the feast of the prepositurale celebrated on June 29th, the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, to whom the church is dedicated. On this day, the facade is adorned with scarlet festoons. Lissone's town festival, held on the third Sunday of October, is linked to the dedication of the Milan Cathedral, as is the tradition for towns and cities within the diocese that do not have a specific patron saint. This festival traditionally continues on the Monday following the third Sunday of October.
In conclusion, the Duomo di Lissone is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the town's rich history, artistic heritage, and community spirit. Its grand architecture, stunning interior, and significant artistic treasures make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the beautiful town of Lissone.
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