"The architecture of a temple, especially of a sanctuary, can be said to be successful when it responds to the inspiration that arises from the particular feeling of the mystery that is to be commemorated, and which is suggested by the spirit"
With these words, the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi describes his work in the Holy Land, where he designed and built the wonderful basilicas of Tabor and Gethsemane.
This year marks the centenary of their construction, and to celebrate the anniversary, the two places will host the exhibitions "LUXTENEBRA: 100 years of the basilicas of Tabor and Gethsemane" until the end of the year. The title LUXTENEBRA refers to the meaning that these two marvellous architectural works represent: the light of the transfiguration, which took place on Mount Tabor, and the darkness of Jesus' agony in Gethsemane.
The two exhibitions aim to celebrate, in addition to the fundamental link that these places have with tradition and the Christian faith, also the contribution of the architect Antonio Barluzzi and his fruitful service to the Custody of the Holy Land in the first decades of the twentieth century. Barluzzi, with his artistic and spiritual sensitivity, has been able to create spaces that not only celebrate the events of the life of Jesus, but that speak deeply to the soul of the visiting faithful.
Pro Terra Sancta, which for years has been committed to the protection and enhancement of the cultural and artistic heritage in the Holy Land, has played a key role in the creation of the two exhibitions, which will remain on display in the shrines until the end of the year.
Basilica of the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor
The Basilica of the Transfiguration is an architectural masterpiece that invites pilgrims to contemplate the mystery of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Built with simple geometries and perfect proportions, the basilica blends harmoniously with the beauty of the surrounding nature. This combination of architecture and natural surroundings creates an experience of wonder and contemplation for visitors. Barluzzi's structure reflects a profound theological reflection, allowing the faithful to feel part of the sacred event it commemorates.
Basilica of the Agony in Gethsemane
The Basilica of the Agony, also known as the Church of All Nations, captures the emotional intensity of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane before his crucifixion. Through the skilful use of mosaics, frescoes and symbolism, Barluzzi has created a space that conveys a deep sense of sacredness. The interior decorations invite people to reflect on the meaning of suffering and redemption, offering a place for meditation and prayer.
Visiting these places in person is an experience that leaves an indelible memory in the visitor's mind, a unique opportunity to reflect on the meanings that the two basilicas contain: the Transfiguration and the Agony, the epiphany of his divinity and the culmination of his human suffering. These seemingly irreconcilable events invite us to meditate on the coexistence of the divine and the human, of light and darkness.
To support these places and allow everyone to reflect on their meaning, Pro Terra Sancta has decided to re-propose the two exhibitions in digital and interactive format; It is a way to bring everyone closer to the beauty of the two basilicas and to reconfirm the commitment to their protection and conservation. Thanks to the digital version, visitors will be able to enjoy all the contents of the exhibitions and take a virtual tour inside the basilicas.
We invite everyone to visit the digital exhibitions to immerse themselves in the beauty and spirituality of these extraordinary places, with the hope that one day you will visit them in person. Find out more on our website and join us on this journey through art, faith and history.
