Basilica della Collegiata

About

The Ancient Royal and Eminent Basilica Collegiate of Our Lady of the Alms (in italian known as Antichissima Regia ed Insigne Basilica Collegiata di Maria Santissima dell'Elemosina), better known as Basilica della Colleggiata, is a church in Catania, Sicily, southern Italy. Finished in 1794, it is an example of Sicilian Baroque.

History: The church was firstly built in the early Middle Ages, but rebuilt in the early 18th century, after the earthquake of 1693 that had destroyed most of the city. The church was elevated to a collegiate church by Pope Eugenius IV.

Architecture: The design of the church is attributed to Angelo Italia (1628–1700), who changed the orientation of the previous edifice destroyed by the earthquake, in order to have it facing the new via Uzeda (current Etnea Street) according to the new urban plan for the city. The façade, designed by Polish architect Stefano Ittar (1724–1790), is one of the most notable examples of late Baroque in Catania. The façade has two orders, the first of which featuring six stone columns, surmounted by a balustrade. The second order has a large central window, with, at the sides, four large statues of St. Peter, St. Paul, St...