The event began with a warm welcome from Fr. Michele Viviano, Rector of the Basilica, who greeted the attendees, including the Rector Major of the Salesians, Fr. Fabio Attard, the Mayor of Turin, Stefano Lo Russo, and other dignitaries. The Musical Band of the Turin Local Police provided a solemn accompaniment, playing hymns such as "Giù dai Colli."
Among those present were students from the Maria Ausiliatrice Institute and the Valdocco Institute, Salesian Chapter members, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, and numerous faithful.
Message from the Rector of the Basilica
In his opening speech, Fr. Michele Viviano emphasized the symbolic significance of the event: “The simultaneous restoration of Piazza Maria Ausiliatrice and the bell towers was not a mere coincidence but something providential. This project embodies Don Bosco’s educational dream: to be ‘good Christians and honest citizens, preparing to be future inhabitants of heaven.’”
He recalled that the restoration work, which began in April 2024, was completed in January 2025, a month dedicated to Don Bosco. He expressed gratitude to the CRT Foundation, the Salesian Congregation, and benefactors devoted to Mary Help of Christians for their support.
Bell Tower Concert and Floral Tribute
The video played on the LED screen showcased the restoration process of the bell towers, which now feature 12 bells, up from the previous 8. The new bell concert delivered a moving performance, highlighting the spiritual significance of bells as a call to prayer and community.
As a sign of devotion and protection, the Fire Brigade of Turin placed a wreath on the statue of Archangel Gabriel and a bouquet of flowers in the hand of Archangel Michael.
Speeches from Authorities
The civil authorities underlined the historical, educational, and community value of the project.
Luca Deri, President of Turin’s 7th District, recalled the three-year journey that led to the redevelopment of the square: “Three years ago, we began working with the Salesians and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians to restore this place to its historical importance for Turin and the Catholic world. The decision to pedestrianize the square was both sustainable and meaningful. Thanks to this joint effort, today we inaugurate a renewed space that is more beautiful and welcoming for everyone.”
Anna Poggi, President of the CRT Foundation, expressed her pride in contributing to the project: “For the CRT Foundation, it was an honor to finance the restoration of the bell towers. This is not just a tribute to the memory of Don Bosco but also a token of gratitude to the Salesians for the immense good they do in our city and worldwide.”
Chiara Foglietta, City of Turin’s Councilor, praised the collaboration between religious and civic institutions: “We worked together to make this space more beautiful, inclusive, and sustainable. This was a great community effort, and the result is a high-quality intervention that will be appreciated by children, youth, and adults alike.”
Message from the Rector Major
In his address, Fr. Fabio Attard, Rector Major of the Salesians, highlighted the spiritual and educational significance of both the bell towers and the square: “The bell towers invite us to lift our gaze toward God and Mary Help of Christians, while the square becomes a place of gathering and community. Together, they represent Don Bosco’s dream: to form good Christians, honest citizens, and joyful inhabitants of heaven.”
He further emphasized the importance of beauty and well-maintained educational spaces: “Many may not realize the profound significance of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians and Valdocco for the countless people across 137 countries who draw inspiration from the Salesian mission that started right here. You should feel proud of this gift. People come from all over the world to visit this sacred Salesian site. It is wonderful to witness a space that is truly human and open to the divine.”
He continued: “A beautiful, modest, but clean and healthy environment is already an educational message. It fosters friendships and learning while discouraging violence. Salesian houses are not fortresses but spaces of humanity, where young people can shape their lives into a gift for their city, their culture, and a better future.”
Message of the Mayor of Turin
Mayor Stefano Lo Russo emphasized the square’s role as a symbol of dialogue and solidarity:“This public square is not just a physical space—it is a place of encounter, dialogue, and solidarity. It embodies the spirit of Turin, a city built on the coming together of diverse communities and the sharing of common values.”
He commended the Salesians' commitment to young people, concluding: “Public Squares are meant for people to meet. Our role is to restore public spaces to their original purpose—bringing people together. This project is more than an architectural renovation; it is a social and spiritual statement, a sign of hope for future generations.”
A Celebration of Faith and Community
The ceremony concluded with the cutting of the ribbon by the Mayor, accompanied by the playing of the Italian National Anthem and the Salesian hymn: "Giù dai Colli."
The inauguration of Piazza Maria Ausiliatrice and the restoration of the bell towers symbolize more than just an architectural achievement. They represent a renewal of faith, community, and Salesian heritage, inspiring future generations and carrying forward Don Bosco’s dream.
