The Church of Scientology is
set to open its new Milan headquarters on Saturday in a former
office of technology company Philips, which will be its biggest
centre in Italy.
Several senior figures linked to the controversial American
organisation are expected to attend the private inauguration
ceremony.
Work on the new centre was carried out discreetly in just a
few months and residents nearby only found out about what it was
going to be a few days ago when the "Church of Scientology" sign
appeared on the building.
The organisation promotes a set of beliefs created by L.
Ron Hubbard. Its teachings focus around the idea of humans as
immortal alien spiritual beings temporarily trapped on Earth in
their physical bodies.
It has courted controversy due to its status in between a
religion and a commercial enterprise, and it has also been
described as a cult. Furthermore, accusations of harassment
techniques against critics have also drawn attention.
"We intended to make an official announcement after the
inauguration," the organisation said. "We also had no plans to
invite the press."
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA