10 places of worship to visit in Nova Gorica and Gorizia, European Capital of Culture 2025
The twin towns of Nova Gorica (Slovenia) and Gorizia (Italy), lying on the border between the two countries, have a rich religious heritage, steeped in centuries of tradition. Both cities are set to animate the European cultural scene in 2025 as the first European Capital of Culture "without borders". If you are looking for ideas for your visit, take note of these 10 religious sites that you should not miss.
Situated on a hill overlooking Nova Gorica, the Kostanjevica Monastery is one of the most important religious landmarks in the area. Founded in the 16th century by the Order of Discalced Carmelites, it is famous for housing the tomb of King Charles X of France. The monastery complex includes beautiful gardens and a church in a Baroque style. The peaceful atmosphere offers visitors a chance to reflect and appreciate the historical and spiritual significance of the site.
Cathedral of Saints Ilario and Taziano (Gorizia, Italy)
The Gorizia Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Ilario and Taziano, is an impressive example of Romanesque architecture whose history dates back to the 13th century. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone various restorations and additions, including a stunning Baroque altar, marble decorations and wooden furnishing from the 17th century. The latest partial reconstruction took place in 1924, giving it the present façade and Baroque appearance. Another not-to-miss site!
Co-Cathedral of Christ the Saviour (Nova Gorica, Slovenia)
The Co-Cathedral of our Christ the Saviour is a beautiful contemporary architecture building. It was desinged by architect Franc Kvaternik and completed in 1982. It was declared co-cathedral of the Diocese of Koper by Pope John Paul II in 2004, becoming the first co-cathedral in Slovenia.
Located within the grounds of the Gorizia Castle, the Chapel of the Holy Spirit is one of the oldest places of worship in the area that has survived almost intact. Its roots date back to the 14th century when the brothers Michele and Giovanni de Rabatta commissioned a to offer a place of worship to the inhabitants of the Borgo Castello. Its Gothic architecture and peaceful location atop a hill offer visitors a moment of reflection while also providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin of the Holy Mount (Nova Gorica, Slovenia)
The Holy Mount ("Monte Santo" in Italian; "Sveta Gora" in Slovenian) has been a sacred place in the region since the Middle Ages. According to local tradition, in 1539 a shepherd alleged a vision of the Virgin Mary asking him to build a temple for her devotion on top of the Holy Mount. A monastic complex was built in the first half of the 16th century, which survived until the 20th century. The clash between the Austrian and Italian armies in the First World War isolated the place. The present Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin, in neo-Baroque style, was designed and built in 1928 by Silvano Barich.
This striking Baroque church, overlooking the Piazza della Vittoria in Gorizia, is dedicated to St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. The church features beautiful decorations and a majestic altar by Venetian sculptor Lazzarini. It also has frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Ignatius. This church is a tranquil place of spiritual reflection and offers a glimpse into the Jesuit influence in the region.
The Capuchin Convent of Gorizia was founded in 1591, under the Habsburg rule, with the purpose of housing a school of Lenten preachers. The complex survived without significant changes until the First World War when, after the fall of the Habsburg monarchy and dissolution of the province of Styria, was severely damaged. The convent church, dedicated to the Assumption and St. Francis of Assisi, is the best preserved building. The convent was expanded between 1960-1962.
The Chiesa di San Giorgio Martire is located in the Lucinico district of Gorizia. The original church was built in the 17th century. However, this building and the church tower were blown up by the Austrian army during the First World War. The church was rebuilt between 1924 and 1926. A painting by Leopold Perco was saved from the rubble and is displayed in the present church.
The original Chiesa di San Rocco was built in 1497 and rebuilt between 1624 and 1637. The current neoclassical façade, designed by Giovanni Brisco, dates from 1898 when it gained the status of a parish church. The First World War caused part of the roof to collapse. The building was restored in the 1920s.
The first Sant'Andrea Church in Gorizia was built in 1663. A new building replaced it in 1900, designed by Hans Pascher of Graz. The church was partially destroyed during the First World War. The current church was built between 1921 and 1923 on a design by Max Fabiani.
