Sacred geometries

The most distinctive feature of the project developed by architects Vincenzo Corvino and Giovanni Multari for the Madonna delle Grazie Parish Complex in Dresano, part of the Diocese of Lodi, is its unique architectural composition. This place of worship, steeped in symbolism, uses a volumetric layout and elementary geometric forms to convey complex meanings associated with faith and religion, while also accommodating the specific functions and rituals inherent to the space.

The architecture of the parish complex is characterised by two elementary geometric forms: the circular church, symbolising eternal perfection and representing the ecclesiastical community; and the rectangular base structure with a central cloister symbolising the practice of the Eucharist. The resultaht composition emphasises the double-height volume of the church, which extends outwards into a long churchyard. The single-level base structure is distinguished by a pattern of reinforced concrete elements that filter light into the interior, with iron oxide pigmentation giving it its distinctive brick colour. These two volumes converge at the churchyard, creating a perimeter portico that welcomes the faithful and serves as a transitional element between the public and liturgical spaces.

The complex is composed of two concentric cylinders: a lower, inner cylinder housing the liturgical hall and a higher, outer cylinder that forms the building’s perimeter. The space between these two elements is protected by a roof supported by concrete structural elements arranged in a St. Andrew’s cross pattern. Within the outer circular volume, which forms an ambulatory encircling the entire assembly, are key liturgical elements including the presbytery, the eucharistic casket, the baptismal font and the penitentiary. The position of the presbytery at the end of a sequence of elements consisting of churchyard, door, liturgical hall and apse adds a further symbolic layer to the circularity of the layout – the axiality of the space culminating in a large Crucifix statue, sculpted by Nino Longobardi.

In terms of materials, the sober, sacred nature of the space is captured through the use of porcelain stoneware slabs from Casalgrande Padana’s Marte collection for the flooring. These slabs, chosen in 60×120 cm and 30×60 cm sizes in the Thassos colour with a natural finish, evoke the beauty of natural marble. Available in 17 colours and eight sizes, the Marte collection offers numerous compositional possibilities for both floors and walls, with high-definition graphics and subtle tones that bring out every detail. The collection’s ability to merge shades of grey with rich colours combines practicality with beauty, fostering a dialogue between classicism and a contemporary design.