Church of San Cataldo

Lore & Background

The Church of San Cataldo was founded around 1160 by admiral Majone di Bari. In the 18th century, the building was used as a post office. During the 19th century, it was restored and brought back to a form more similar to the original medieval edifice. The church has a rectangular plan with blind arches partially occupied by windows, and its roof features three characteristic red bulge domes (cubole) and Arab-style merlons.

Reader's Guide

The Church of San Cataldo is a significant example of Arab-Norman architecture, a style unique to Sicily that flourished under Norman rule. Its design reflects the Normans' preference for simple, severe forms derived from their military background, while also incorporating elements from Islamic and Byzantine architecture, such as cubic forms, blind arches, and spherical red domes. The church's international character is evident in features like the bell tower, which can be traced to coeval buildings in Northern France and England, including the cathedral of Laon, the Abbaye aux Dames in Caen, and the cathedral of Durham. The interior contains a nave with two aisles, spolia columns with Byzantine-style arcades, an original mosaic pavement, and the original main altar. The old City Wall runs underneath the church. Its designation as a World Heritage Site in 2015 underscores its cultural and historical importance.

Did You Know?

• The church was used as a post office in the 18th century.
• The interior retains its original mosaic pavement and main altar.