Cathedral of San Lorenzo Trapani

The city's cathedral also has minor basilica status, and is worth a visit while you're in Trapani. Built by the Normans as the Capella di San Giorgio in 1102, it was then dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Genoa, whose consulate was located next door. There was a commercial and maritime presence from that northern city, who helped the Normans re-conquest the island from the Arabs.

In 1208 King Giacomo II Aragon split the district into two rioni (neighborhoods) renaming from St. George to San Francesco and San Lorenzo. The church was continually expanded and restyled through the centuries. In 1434 it was elevated to parish church an the wealthy patrons contributed to have their side chapels. The first was Santo Stefano chapel by the Vento family. It was restored in the 1600s, and redone again in 1740 under Giovanni Battista Amico who retooled the cupola, smaller domes, the portico and choir. More art was added in 1794. As you can see it was constantly renewed. In 1844 Pope Gregory XVI designated the bishop's seat, giving it cathedral status.

The church is styled in Baroque inside and out, with some intriguing features and beautiful art. Take a look!

Photo: Di Mboesch - Opera propria, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24153529