Cattedrale di Catania
Sicilia
Catania Cathedral, officially the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Agatha, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the historic center of Catania, Sicily. Originally constructed between 1078 and 1093 by order of Roger I of Sicily on the ruins of ancient Roman baths, it has endured multiple destructions due to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions from nearby Mount Etna. The current Baroque façade, designed by Gian Battista Vaccarini in 1711, features Corinthian granite columns and statues of Saint Agatha and other saints. The cathedral's bell tower, rebuilt after the devastating 1693 earthquake, houses one of Italy's largest bells. Inside, the cathedral follows a Latin cross plan with a nave and two aisles, housing notable artworks including paintings by Guglielmo Borremans and the tomb of composer Vincenzo Bellini. The Chapel of St. Agatha and the apse, dating back to the 12th century, preserve medieval architectural elements. The cathedral combines Norman, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, reflecting its layered history and significance as the seat of the Archbishops of Catania.
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Astuce: Visit the cathedral during the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the light on the Baroque façade and avoid peak crowds. Tickets should be purchased in advance during festival periods, especially around the feast of Saint Agatha in early February. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the historical and artistic details.
Faits intéressants
- •The cathedral was built on the ruins of the ancient Roman Achillean Baths.
- •The bell tower houses the third largest bell in Italy, weighing 7.5 tons.
- •The wooden main door features 32 sculpted plaques depicting episodes from the life and martyrdom of Saint Agatha.
- •The cathedral’s apse features a medieval mullioned window and a late 16th-century choir by Scipione di Guido.
- •The northern aisle contains paintings by Guglielmo Borremans, a notable Baroque artist.
Histoire
The cathedral was originally built between 1078 and 1093 on the ruins of Roman baths under Roger I of Sicily, serving as a fortified church.
It suffered major damage from the 1169 earthquake and a fire the same year, and was almost completely destroyed by the catastrophic 1693 earthquake.
Rebuilt in Baroque style in the early 18th century by Gian Battista Vaccarini, the cathedral preserves Norman elements such as the transept and apses.
In 1926, it was elevated to a minor basilica by Pope Pius XI.
Guide du lieu
Baroque Façade1711
Designed by Gian Battista Vaccarini in 1711, the façade showcases three levels with Corinthian granite columns and marble statues of Saint Agatha, Saint Euplius, and Saint Birillus. The intricately carved wooden door depicts scenes from Saint Agatha's life.
Bell Tower1387 (original), rebuilt post-1693
Originally built in 1387 and rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, the bell tower reaches 90 meters and contains a massive 7.5-ton bell, the third largest in Italy after those in St. Peter's Basilica and Milan Cathedral.
Chapel of St. Agatha
This chapel honors the patron saint of Catania and contains important religious artworks and relics associated with Saint Agatha, reflecting the deep devotion of the city to its protector.
Apse and Medieval Elements12th century (apse), late 16th century (choir)
The apse dates back to the 12th century and retains its medieval mullioned window and a late-16th-century choir crafted by Neapolitan artist Scipione di Guido, preserving the Norman heritage within the Baroque structure.
Interior Artworks and Tombs17th century (paintings), various (tombs)
The cathedral houses paintings by Guglielmo Borremans and the tomb of composer Vincenzo Bellini. The Chapel of the Holy Crucifix contains tombs of Aragonese royalty, including Kings Frederick III and Louis.
Contact
Téléphone: 339 485 9942
