Chiesa di Santa Maria della Guardia

The chiesa di Santa Maria della Guardia is a Gothic Revival church in Catania featuring pointed arch windows, detailed masonry, and decorative ornaments from the 19th century. The building defines the Guardia neighborhood with its characteristic gothic elements and vertical proportions.

Construction began in 1870 when local residents wanted to create a place of worship for their neighborhood. The building was expanded later and sustained damage during World War II, though it was subsequently restored.

The church displays a significant 1877 painting by Sicilian artist Antonino Gandolfo showing the Madonna with angels in the background. Catania Cathedral and Mount Etna appear in the artwork, connecting the sacred image to the local landscape and faith of the community.

Visitors should explore the interior to see the religious architecture and the artwork inside. The church sits in a residential neighborhood and is typically accessible during times that align with regular services.

The structure originally had a circular shape and underwent major rebuilding in 1903. This transformation significantly altered the internal layout and gave the building its current form.

Location: Catania

Inception: 1870

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://parrocchiadellaguardia.it

GPS coordinates: 37.51905,15.10557

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:00