Historical Churches Walking Tour (Self Guided), Catania

Just as many other Italian destinations, the Sicilian city of Catania is full of churches, especially in the historic center, where the presence of religious sites is particularly high! A good number of local churches date back centuries, and as such represent marvelous pieces of architecture, adding much character to the area. It is also commonplace to find inside most of them, be it a duomo, basilica, chiesa or cattedrale, at least one spectacular piece of art amid the rich decorations of gold, bronze and marble.

All the “older” churches of Catania – styled Baroque – emerged in the 18th century. The reason for that is simple, as the history of the city is split between “before” and “after” the earthquake of January 9, 1693 which saw Catania largely destroyed. Here are some of the most impressive local churches built since:

The Cathedral of Catania – aka Saint Agatha’s Cathedral, named after the “Santuzza” protector of the city; the massive structure shows a characteristic contrast between the gray and white marble used for decorations.

The Abbey of Saint Agata – right next to the Cathedral, completed in 1735 and regarded as a jewel of Sicilian Baroque; the masterpiece of the architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, designer of the post-earthquake Catania.

The San Giuliano Church – seen by many as the “pearl” of the city’s 18th-century reconstruction.

The Monastery of St. Nicholas Arena – one of the largest churches in Sicily, with a long and troubled history, predating the 1693 earthquake.

To explore these and other historic places of worship in Catania in more detail, take this self-guided walking tour.