The Jubilee Church in Rome (also known as Dio Padre Misericordioso) is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen. It is designed by Richard Meier and Partners.
Opened and unveiled in October 2003, the design of the Jubilee Church utilizes a unique arc-shaped exterior to allow the interior of the church to change based on the amount of light that seeps in.
The perceptual volume of the Church is directly influenced by natural light since the zenith light and the glazed skylights between the successive shells are continually responsive to the changing pattern of light and shadow as the sun moves across its trajectory. According to the season, the weather, and the time of day, light is variously graduated down the inner surface of the shells thereby imparting to the Church, the Chapel and the Baptismal Fount a particular character.
Here’s an interview with Richard Meier about the design of the church. And if you’re interested more in some of the other aspects of the church, here is a list of designers and and products that the church uses (with links to the companies/people).
Of course, there are more photos.
