In Piazza del Duomo in Acireale, this basilica stands beside the cathedral, with a richly carved Baroque facade designed by Pietro Paolo Vasta from 1740. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, it has an asymmetrical front and a single-nave interior with a simpler, neoclassical arrangement. Step inside to see the side altars and their paintings, then look up at the stucco and decorated ceiling. The church is a worthwhile short stop if you are exploring the square and its Baroque buildings.
A facade rebuilt after the earthquake
The basilica stands on Piazza del Duomo, beside Acireale Cathedral. Work on the church began in the early 17th century, and the building was extensively reconstructed after the 1693 earthquake. Its pale stone facade was designed by local artist Pietro Paolo Vasta, with work beginning around 1740.
Look closely at the facade’s columns, niches, statues and carved details. The front is asymmetrical: only one of the planned bell towers was built. The second was left out so it would not obscure the sundial inside the cathedral nearby.
Inside the basilica
The interior was reorganized in a neoclassical style during the rebuilding, and has a single nave lined with Corinthian half-columns. Side altars hold paintings, alongside marble altars and stucco decoration. The inside is more restrained than the elaborate facade, so allow time to look at the details in the chapels and above the nave.
The church became a collegiate church in 1924. In 1933, Pope Pius XI gave it the status of a minor papal basilica. Piazza del Duomo makes it easy to add the visit to a walk around Acireale’s central square, where the cathedral and nearby historic buildings are also found.
FAQ
Where is the basilica?
It is on Piazza del Duomo in Acireale, beside the cathedral.
Who designed the facade?
The facade was designed by Acireale artist Pietro Paolo Vasta, with work beginning around 1740.
What can you see inside?
The single-nave interior has side altars with paintings, marble altars and stucco decoration.
When was the church made a basilica?
It became a collegiate church in 1924 and a minor papal basilica in 1933.
