Chiesa di Santa Maria in Valverde is a small church in Palermo, at Largo dei Cavalieri di Malta. Its medieval structure took on a strongly Baroque, distinctly Sicilian appearance after restoration in the first half of the 17th century. Inside, look for the richly worked marble altars and the luminous Tetragrammaton on the dome. Symbols on the side altars offer details to notice as you move through the church; many of its frescoes were lost in World War II bombings.
Medieval structure, Baroque restoration
The church’s underlying structure is medieval. Its strongly Baroque, Sicilian appearance dates to a restoration in the first half of the 17th century by Mariano Smiriglio, financed by Camillo Pallavicino.
The result brings two periods together: an older structure and a later decorative style. The bell tower is another detail to look for outside.
Altars and surviving decoration
Inside, the side altars carry strong symbolic details, and the inlaid marble work gives them particular visual interest. The dome’s luminous Tetragrammaton draws the eye upward.
Many of the church’s frescoes were lost in the bombings of World War II. A guide can help explain the symbolism that remains; some guides can speak English.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Chiesa di Santa Maria in Valverde?
It is at Largo dei Cavalieri di Malta in Palermo, Sicily.
What should I look for inside?
Notice the inlaid marble altars, the symbols on the side altars and the luminous Tetragrammaton on the dome.
Is the church always open to visitors?
It is often closed outside services. Check whether it is open before you go.
