In the heart of the beautiful Catania there is a treasure not to be missed if you visit the Sicilian city because witness of history, architecture and faith: the Cathedral of Sant’Agata.
The Cathedral of Sant’Agata or Duomo di Catania is a sacred building dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Sant’Agata, overlooking the central Piazza del Duomo and embodies the fusion of styles and influences of centuries of history and spirituality.
The history of the Cathedral of Sant’Agata
The history of this treasure is linked to the Norman period, that is when the Cathedral of Sant’Agata was built on land that had previously been Roman site (Terme Achilliane) and then an early Christian basilica.
The cathedral has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries, reflecting the architectural style of different historical periods, from the Norman to the Baroque style.
Among the most important interventions there are those carried out after some calamitous events: the new church was built on the original three-nave system and has undergone the integration of pre-existing structures harmonized with the new facade.
Led by the Palermo architect Giovan Battista Vaccarini, the project of rebirth has incorporated precious materials and unique details such as columns and ancient statues, creating an artistic bridge between the past and the present.
Foto : Unsplash
Cathedral of Sant’Agata: external and internal description
The majestic façade of the Cathedral of Sant’Agata dominates the square with its balustrade characterized by Corinthian columns, statues and intricate decorations by Vaccarini.
Inside, the eye is greeted by three naves flanked by marble columns, ornate altars and frescoes that tell sacred stories. Every detail reflects centuries of art and devotion.
The right aisle conveys a sense of grandeur with its spans containing frescoes and statues and altars embellished with works celebrating the memory of the saints to whom they are dedicated and funeral monuments adorn the sacred spaces.
In the left aisle, the atmosphere is equally rich in history and sacred art. Among the masterpieces not to be missed are the altar dedicated to Saint George that evokes the eternal struggle between good and evil, the altar of Saint Francis of Paola that instills a sense of peace and the masterpiece of the “Martyrdom of Saint Agatha” by Filippo Paladini.
The transept fascinates the eye with its sepulchral monuments and the works that adorn the walls. Of particular interest are the funeral monument of Bishop Michelangelo Bonadies and the monument of Vincenzo Bellini as they tell a piece of history of Catania.
The apse of the central nave, of Norman style, shows the outside the ancient lava stone masonry while inside is decorated with frescoes depicting the patron saints of Catania.
The Norman columns support the apsidal arch and a modern glass window fills the single lancet window placed in the center.
One of the most distinctive elements of the cathedral is the Chapel of Saint Agatha, where Saint Agatha is kept (more precisely some of her relics). This sanctuary is richly decorated with precious marbles, golden decorations and paintings depicting the life and martyrdom of the holy martyr.
In the left apse is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, once dedicated to Saint Benedict, containing the tombs of the family Gravina – Cruyllas.
The presbytery, accessible via a staircase, contains the main altar and the ambo more modern while the ancient neoclassical altar is located in the Chapel of the Madonna del Rosario.
Catania Cathedral: curiosities
The Cathedral of Sant’Agata in Catania is not only a place of worship, but also a vital center for Sicilian culture and tradition. Every year, in February, the city celebrates the feast of Saint Agatha, one of the largest and most spectacular religious festivals in Italy.
During this festival, the cathedral becomes the center of celebrations, with solemn processions and fireworks displays that attract thousands of devotees and tourists.
Visit the Cathedral of Sant’Agata: what times?
You can visit the Cathedral of Sant’Agata every day and at any time, except for the times when there are religious services. So, it would be better to check weekday and public holiday schedules.
The cathedral cons ente visitors to access guided tours to explore its history, art and architecture in detail. And as soon as you exit remember that you are in the center of Catania and continue to amaze.
Copertina: Unsplash
