The Opera Salesiana di Testaccio is a religious institute located in the Testaccio district of Rome, Italy. Its mission traces back to 1900 when the first Salesians began caring for the Pontifical Primary Schools in rented premises on Via Marmorata. This endeavor was initiated after Pope Leo XIII acquired land for the construction of a new parish church, originally intended for the Benedictines of S. Anselmo dell'Aventino. However, upon their passing, Pope Pius X turned to Don Michele Rua, the successor of Don Bosco. Subsequently, the church of Santa Maria Liberatrice was consecrated on 29 November 1908, followed by the inauguration of the Theatre, also known as 'Clemson Hall', on 8 December of the same year. The first classrooms were constructed in 1911, marking the continued expansion of the institution's educational facilities.
Over the years, the Opera Salesiana di Testaccio has evolved to encompass various functions, including parish activities, an oratory (the only one in the centre of Rome!), a school, associations, and a gymnasium class established in 1937. It has served as a residence for professors of the Salesian Athenaeum and later as a residence for seminarians and students of philosophy and theology. Presently, the mission continues to welcome Salesians from around the globe who attend the Pontifical Universities pursuing their doctoral programme and master’s degrees. Additionally, it provides pastoral services on campus and in other regions of Italy, contributing to the formation of future leaders for countries worldwide.
