Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Cathedral · Catânia, Sicília
Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
The cathedral of Catania, dedicated to the patron saint Santa Águeda. Baroque façade by Vaccarini, Norman apses of lava stone and the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
The Cattedrale di Sant'Agata occupies the east side of the Piazza del Duomo. The first version was built between 1086 and 1094, in the Norman period, over the ruins of the Termas Aquilianas, Roman baths that can still be partly seen beneath the square. It was a church-fortress with thick walls.
The earthquakes of 1169 and 1693 destroyed almost everything. From the Norman work remain the three lava stone apses at the rear. The Baroque façade, of marble with granite columns, is the work of Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, in the 18th century.
Inside is the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini, the opera composer born in Catania. A chapel holds the relics of Santa Águeda, a 3rd-century martyr and the city's patron saint, carried in procession during the big festival in February.
It is a functioning church: there are masses and times when tourist visits are restricted. To enter, shoulders and knees must be covered.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Between 30 minutes and 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, outside mass times. From February 3 to 5, during the Sant'Agata festival, the church is at the center of the celebrations and very crowded.
How to get there
It is located on the Piazza del Duomo, at the end of Via Etnea, a few steps from the Fontana dell'Elefante.
Tip
Go with shoulders and knees covered. Look for Bellini's tomb, immediately to the right as you enter. Check the visiting hours before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
Who is buried in the cathedral?
The composer Vincenzo Bellini, author of Norma, born in Catânia. The cathedral also holds the relics of Saint Agatha, the city's patron saint.
Do you need appropriate clothing?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter.
What remains of the Norman church?
The three apses of dark lava stone, visible at the back. The rest was rebuilt after the earthquakes, especially the one in 1693.
Can you visit during Masses?
Tourist visits are limited during services. Prefer times outside Mass and check before going.