Inside the Lipari Castle complex in Lipari, the Co-Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew draws the eye to its painted ceiling, where central panels depict scenes from the Old Testament. Look for the statue of Saint Philomena near the front, then explore the church’s details and the old monastery in the complex, which has a €1 entry fee. The quiet setting also gives you views from the castle grounds. During festivities for Saint Bartholomew, his sacred thumb is displayed in a silver reliquary.
The painted ceiling
The church’s central ceiling panels depict scenes from the Old Testament. One of them shows the story of Judith. A statue of Saint Philomena stands near the front; from there, look to the left to find it.
The cathedral is within the Lipari Castle complex, where the calm setting and views add to a visit. Its painted ceiling and interior details are reasons to spend time looking around the church rather than passing through quickly.
The monastery and the saint’s relic
An old monastery is part of the cathedral complex and has a €1 entry fee. It gives you another place to explore while visiting the castle grounds.
Saint Bartholomew is the patron saint of the Aeolian archipelago. The cathedral holds a relic identified as his sacred thumb, kept in a silver reliquary shaped like a blessing arm. It is displayed during festivities honoring the saint.
FAQ
Where is the Co-Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew?
It is inside the Lipari Castle complex in Lipari, Sicily.
Is there an entry fee for the cathedral?
The church is free to enter. The old monastery in the complex has a €1 entry fee.
What can I see inside the cathedral?
Look for the ceiling paintings of Old Testament scenes and the statue of Saint Philomena near the front.
When is Saint Bartholomew’s relic displayed?
The sacred thumb, held in a silver reliquary, is displayed during festivities honoring Saint Bartholomew.
