Inauguration Program
The event will be attended by numerous civic and Salesian authorities, including the Mayor of Turin, Stefano Lo Russo; the Councilor for Ecological Transition, Chiara Foglietta; the President of Turin’s District 7, Luca Deri; the newly elected Rector Major of the Salesian Congregation, Fr. Fabio Attard, along with members of the renewed General Council and Salesians participating in the 29th General Chapter; and the Rector of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, Fr. Michele Viviano.
The program will include the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony for the square, a performance by the Municipal Police Band of Turin, and a floral tribute by the Fire Brigade, who will place two wreaths on the statues of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel atop the restored bell towers. This gesture symbolizes their offering to Mary Help of Christians. Additionally, a video projection showcasing the bell concert will be presented.
The Piazza Maria Ausiliatrice Redevelopment Project
Part of the broader "Valdocco Vivibile" revitalization plan, the redevelopment of the square was carried out by the Green and Parks Division and the Soft Mobility Service. The project addressed the various needs of the surrounding institutions, including the Basilica complex, the parish church, the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, and their provincial headquarters. The extensive pedestrianization, redesigned pavements, and expanded green spaces have restored the square’s historical significance while offering an unobstructed view of the architectural complex, the statue of Don Bosco, and the Basilica facade.
Beyond improving functionality, the interventions have also contributed to climate resilience by employing innovative, low-impact materials such as permeable pavements and natural elements. Additionally, architectural barriers have been removed, ensuring full accessibility for all.
Restoration of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians
The restoration work began less than a year ago, on April 24, 2024, with the securing of the statues of the two archangels, Michael and Gabriel, atop the bell towers. Scaffolding was then installed, allowing for the recovery of three statues—the Madonna and the two angels—as well as the restoration of the bell towers themselves. The project also included the replacement and expansion of the bell concert, increasing the number of bells from 8 to 12, now distributed across both towers instead of just one, as previously arranged.
These works were approved and encouraged by the General Council of the Congregation. At the time, the then-General Economer, Br. Jean Paul Muller, SDB, underscored the significance of this initiative: "The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians is the central place of our attachment and devotion to Mary Help of Christians, who has always accompanied us and will continue to guide us through all the challenges of our history."
Fr. Viviano, Rector of the Basilica, also shared his thoughts: "The concurrent redevelopment of Piazza Maria Ausiliatrice and the long-overdue restoration of the bell towers, along with the new bell concert, was an interesting coincidence. It was like a dream come true, made possible thanks to financial contributions from the CRT Foundation, the Salesian Congregation, and devoted individuals who cherish Mary Help of Christians and Don Bosco. This fortunate coincidence translates Don Bosco’s educational vision into the present: to be 'good Christians' (symbolized by the Basilica and its bell towers) and 'honest citizens' (represented by the square), preparing us to be future inhabitants of Heaven."
In addition to commemorating Salesian history and celebrating the unity, faith, and legacy of Don Bosco and his educational and spiritual mission, the ceremony will also serve as an opportunity to express gratitude to the many benefactors who made the restoration possible within a short timeframe.
