The Modern Cathedral of Christ the King in La Spezia.
In La Spezia, Liguria, Italy, the Cathedral of Christ the King is one of the most distinctive buildings in the city. Its modern architecture, with its circular shape and clean lines, looks very different from that of traditional European cathedrals. In this series of photographs, I wanted to show both the exterior and the interior, two perspectives that reveal different aspects of the same building.
From the outside, the cathedral stands out for its imposing, pale structure overlooking Piazza Europa. Its shape is geometric and almost sculptural. Rather than the elaborate façades and decorative details found on many historic churches, the design focuses on form, proportions and simple surfaces. This architectural approach gives the building its unmistakable character and makes it an interesting subject to photograph.
The interior deserves just as much attention. Once inside, visitors find themselves in a large circular space, with the layout drawing the eye towards the centre and the altar. The roof is supported by twelve pillars arranged radially, symbolically representing the twelve Apostles. Natural light enters through the central opening in the dome and through a continuous glazed band around the perimeter, creating a bright atmosphere that differs considerably from that of older churches.
The cathedral was designed by architect Adalberto Libera in 1956. Following his death, the project was continued by Cesare Galeazzi, and the building was completed and consecrated in 1975. It is an important example of twentieth-century religious architecture, combining modern materials and forms with a space intended for worship and community life.
Photographing both the exterior and interior makes it easier to appreciate the design as a whole. From outside, the compact shape and its relationship with the surrounding square are the main features. Inside, the roof structure, the pillars and the movement of natural light become the main points of interest. The two views complement each other: what appears simple and almost closed from the outside becomes a spacious, light-filled environment within.
I enjoy discovering this kind of architecture during my photographic walks. Religious buildings do not necessarily need centuries of history or lavish decoration to capture my attention. Sometimes, their simple shapes and innovative design solutions are just as fascinating. The Cathedral of Christ the King is an unmistakable landmark in La Spezia and offers an opportunity to explore how modern architecture can shape a sacred space.
For me, photographing a building from different angles is also a way to understand it better. The exterior shows its relationship with the city, while the interior reveals how its structure works and how light changes the atmosphere. Together, these photographs offer a more complete impression of this distinctive cathedral.
Do you prefer historic cathedrals filled with elaborate decorations, or do you also appreciate the clean lines of a modern building like this one? Add a comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.
Photo taken with a Canon EOS M100 camera and Canon EF-M 11-22 lens.
If you want to see all the photos I took in the city, click here:
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