Chiesa Sant'Ignazio al Olivella (Church of Saint Ignatius), Palermo

The Church of Saint Ignatius, also known as Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio or Sant'Ignazio all'Olivella, stands as a distinguished Baroque architectural gem within Palermo's historic center, specifically in the Olivella neighborhood of the Loggia quarter. The church's construction commenced in 1598, initiated by the Congregation of the Oratory of Saint Philip Neri. This site historically housed the Sinibaldi family palace, the birthplace of the 12th-century Saint Rosalia, and previously, a Norman-era chapel.

The original architect, Antonio Muttone, launched a building campaign that stretched nearly a century, culminating in the church's consecration in 1711. The facade, marked by its Baroque style, features projecting Doric columns and is flanked by bell towers added in the 18th century. These towers are adorned with statues of Saints Phillip Neri, Rosalia, Ignatius of Antioch, and Francis of Sales-the latter two added in 1651 and 1751 respectively. Notably, Saint Ignatius of Antioch is depicted with a palm frond, symbolic of martyrdom, and a lion at his feet.

The church's interior epitomizes Baroque splendor. Its dome, finished in 1732, is crowned by a coffered, frescoed ceiling by Antonio Manno, and the floor displays intricate polychrome marble patterns. The main altar showcases a Trinity painting by Sebastiano Conca, sided by Ignazio Marabitti’s marble statues of Saints Peter and Paul. Other notable artworks include Filippo Paladino’s Martyrdom of Saint Ignatius, a reproduction of Guido Reni’s portrait of Saint Phillip Neri, and Salvatore Loforte's paintings, such as the Miracle of the Blessed Sebastian Valfrè and San Nicolo di Bari appearing to Abbott Elpino during a storm.

Further enriching the church’s collection, the chapel of Saint Mary Magdalen houses an altarpiece by Mario Menniti, while an Annunciation by Giacomo Loverde emulates Pietro Novelli's style. Additionally, a 15th-century altarpiece attributed to Lorenzo di Credi depicts the Virgin and Child with a young John the Baptist, adding to the spiritual and artistic aura of this remarkable Baroque church.