Don Justo

August 1, 2005 5:07 AM

Don Justo's self built Cathedral This is no "model" cathedral and he is neither a qualified architect, nor engineer, nor bricklayer -- he is a farmer, ex monk and his vision. "metaphoric learnings for contemporary alternative initiatives"
posted by adamvasco (10 comments total)

Stunning to see what one guy with vision can do.

I hate to quibble, but is it really right to call it a cathedral? As far as I can tell, it's not sanctified and isn't the seat of a bishopric -- it's merely a lovely building that resembles a "cathedral."
posted by alumshubby at 5:22 AM on August 1, 2005

Incredible. I love it that something like this can still happen somewhere in our world.
posted by taz at 6:10 AM on August 1, 2005

That's wonderful on many levels (s'cuse the pun). It reminds me of that Chand fellow in India who built his sculpture garden regardless of those around him.
Don Justo is an amazing character and all power to him. It would be nice if people would donate some time helping him in addition to any monetary offering, otherwise it's unlikely to be finished in his lifetime.
Thank you adamvasco!!
posted by peacay at 6:44 AM on August 1, 2005

Oh wow. Just wow. I really hope some kind architect or engineer will step in and get it up to code. I'd hate to see this labor of faith razed.

Makes me realize that I am a lazy, lazy woman devoid of passion.
posted by jrossi4r at 6:48 AM on August 1, 2005

Those pictures are beautiful. Many thanks for these links.
posted by voltairemodern at 9:01 AM on August 1, 2005

Also, was anyone else confused about why this project didn't have the blessing of the church? Is it just because the structure is so unsafe, or are there political reasons?
posted by voltairemodern at 9:02 AM on August 1, 2005

voltairemodern, the only thing I read was that they already had a cathedral for the local bishop. You may be right about the political angle; perhaps they aren't impressed with an ex-trappist being gung-ho from the start without church blessing/assistance/directorship and aren't happy about the publicity for self angle or just want the land to sell it (as was mentioned) or the somesuch. They had one mass there though so it's at least a little bit sacred ;- )
posted by peacay at 9:14 AM on August 1, 2005

Somebody's been watching their Aquarius adverts...
posted by benzo8 at 9:34 AM on August 1, 2005

wow, incredible story. nice post, adamvasco!
posted by madamjujujive at 10:28 AM on August 1, 2005

What a great post, on a favorite subject of mine. Thanks!
posted by frykitty at 10:43 AM on August 1, 2005