Mr. Cattaneo, a local tycoon and owner of the Monte Tamaro cable car, commissioned Chapel of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Monte Tamaro, Ticino, Switzerland, at an altitude of 1530 meters.
Mario Botta, entrusted with the task, chose the mountain itself as his canvas, ultimately placing the chapel near the cable car station at the summit. In doing so, he seamlessly wove it into the fabric of the ski resort’s activities, while preserving an unbroken view from the cliff’s edge down into the vast valley below.
The chapel unfolds as a composition of three key elements: a cylindrical core, a long bridge stretching toward the cliff, and a smaller stepped bridge hovering over the entrance. These forms, governed by strict symmetry, create a labyrinthine path—a meditative journey through light, shadow, and stone. Some routes reveal themselves openly, like the sweeping bridge leading visitors toward the horizon; others, more secretive, spiral inward in quieter, more mysterious circuits.
Among the chapel’s most stirring features is Enzo Cucchi’s depiction of two cypresses, threading their way along the vaulted axis, visible from beneath the entrance bridge and ascending the hill into the sacred space. To encounter this work fully, one must abandon the main path, slipping instead through an elevated tunnel pierced by circular windows. Here, the chapel’s timelessness becomes palpable—born from its solemn purpose, its remote perch, and the primal spirit of the porphyry stone from which it is hewn. True to Botta’s vision, the building is bound by a fierce devotion to geometry and proportion. Yet perhaps its greatest gift is the abundance of experiences it offers: a complex promenade where architecture, landscape, and spirit intertwine.
Upon arrival at the church grounds, we were utterly captivated by the distinctive architectural style. The crisp, sunny morning provided an ideal backdrop as we approached the main entrance, marveling at the flawless integration of geometric shapes and proportions. The structure's modern yet refined aesthetic invites immersive appreciation. Inside, the symmetrical design creates a sense of harmony, with light pouring through the windows and casting a warm glow on the benches, fostering a serene and sacred atmosphere. Walking along the bridge to the cliff’s edge, where a cross stands, offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape and mountains, leaving an indelible impression.
Notes:
Atop Alpe Foppa, accessible by cable car, lies Monte Tamaro, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts in the Lugano Prealps, featuring hiking trails, adventure parks, and an exhilarating coaster bob. The church, prized for its contemporary design, is beautifully woven into the landscape.
The church is a sought-after destination for visitors to Monte Tamaro, providing an opportunity for introspection and admiration of architecture and natural surroundings. From 2 September 2024, the cable car and all activities (Adventure Park, Coaster bob, Zip line, Restaurant Alpe Foppa and Santa Maria degli Angeli Church) will be closed due to construction work for the new cable car. The reopening of all activities and the new cable car is scheduled for...
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