Cathedral and Badia of Sant'Agata

No visit to Catania is complete without seeing the cathedral dedicated to the city's patron saint, Sant'Agata. The virgin-martyr was killed in 351 for refusing the lecherous advances of a Roman lord. Her mortal remains are in reliquaries in the cathedral.

The frosted facade is a cake-like beauty that sets off the Piazza del Duomo, studded with icing-like statues, balustrades and adornments along the roofline. It is a lovely cathedral, though the current version dates to mid-1700s. The first church was built here in the Norman era, between 1086 and 1094. It was expanded and adorned over the years, and the Benedictine monastery was added next door. The church utilized some columns, friezes and capitals recycled from ancient Roman ruins. Then the 1693 earthquake dismantled many parts of the original structure, including the bell tower, which fell and demolished some of the church below it. The cathedral was rebuilt, giving it the style you see today, while retaining the portions of the Norman structure that had been left intact, most notably the apse. The interior is a soaring space, with beautiful elements and artwork, and in impressive pipe organ.

Guided tours in several languages can be arranged by advance reservation (the tour lasts about 20 minutes) by contacting the cathedral.

The monastery and church next door are part of the history of the saint and the church, and must be seen. The Benedictine convent was built for a cloistered order of nuns, established in 1612. With the earthquake, only 13 of the 28 nuns survived and their building was destroyed. Plans were made to rebuild the monastery complex and include a more monumental church. The architect hired was Sicilian Giovan Battista Vaccarini, and the baroque church he designed was clearly inspired by Borromini's monument in Piazza Navona dedicated to Sant'Agnese. It is a masterpiece of beauty - with its dome and delicate twin bell towers, a stunning church. When the religious orders were repressed in 1866, the nuns were disbanded; the last one died in 1929 and today the convent is completely separated from the "badia" (church) and not accessible. But do visit the church as it is lovely.

Another good reason to visit is the view! The terraces and dome are now open to the public to ascend and take in the 360º breathtaking panorama! The cupola is open every day except Monday. At only €3 per person, it is a worthy attraction!

CUPOLA HOURS: Tuesday: from 9:30 AM til 12:30 PM
Wednesday - Saturday, from 9:30 AM til 12:30 PM; and from 3:30 PM til 5:30 PM
Sunday: from 9:30 AM til 12:30 PM; and from 7:00 PM til 8:30 PM
Cupola Closed Monday.