A Gorgeous Outdoor Cathedral Made Of Live Trees Grows In Northern Italy

In 2001, Italian artist Giuliano Mauri began work on an outdoor architectural installation near the foot of northern Italy's Mount Arera. He would continue to work on the impressive project until his death in 2009. The following year, his creation was finally completed by those who now view it as a memorial to the late artist.

The finished sculptures form hallowed grounds named Cattedrale Vegetale, or "Tree Cathedral." This gorgeous blend of nature and spirituality will uplift any visitor lucky enough to soak in its beauty in person.

The structure is formed by 42 ivy-covered columns separated in five aisles.

Photo: Flickr

Each column consists of 1,800 fir poles, 600 chestnut branches, and 6,000 meters of hazel branches held together with wood, nails, and string.

Photo: Virtual Sacred Space


Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Eighty hornbeam saplings flower and fade with the seasons inside the columns.

Photo: P Base


Photo: Queste Dolomiti


Photo: Inexhibit


Photo: NY Times


Photo: Flickr
I can't imagine the feeling of seeing this amazing creation in person. I hope I get to find out what it looks like up close one day.

Source: My Modern Met. Via Viral Nova

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