Europe’s largest Mormon temple will soon be dedicated in Rome. Visible from the expansive shopping mall, Porta di Roma, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a three story, 40,000 square foot building with a 160-foot spire topped by a golden, trumpet-blowing angel. The colossal structure is made of bright granite and towers over the other buildings in its vicinity which includes a cultural center, meetinghouse, visitors’ center, family history center and on-grounds housing for visitors.
For a unique opportunity for those not a part of the Mormon faith, free tours will be available from January 28 to February 16. These tours come prior to the dedication ceremony of the temple, after which only faithful members of the religion will be allowed inside.
Check out the modern architecture, the stained-glass work, marble statues and other decorations which make this temple one-of-a-kind. In addition to having lovely artwork, the temple boasts solar panels and other modern technology.
The building of these grounds was funded by members of the Mormon community and the complex’s intended use is to engage in humanitarian projects, often working in partnership with Italian charities such as the Italian Red Cross. With 2,000 of the country’s 26,000 Mormons living in Rome, the complex is sure to be an active and lively meeting place for the faithful.
The temple is unlike any other religious site in Italy and the opportunity to catch a glimpse inside this modern wonder should not be missed. The main doors are flanked by giant palm trees and lit up with golden lights and the inside of the temple is just as stunning.
To explore the temple before the dedication ceremony, visit www.lds.org and choose a day for your reservation. Open house tours and activities are hosted on all days except Sundays. — Danielle Abbazia