Santa Maria della Pace

Santa Maria della Pace is a baroque church in Palermo featuring three naves arranged without a transept, with sepulchers, a spacious sacristy, and an ornately decorated choir visible throughout the interior. The layout follows standard Italian church design while maintaining distinctive baroque ornamentation in every section.

The building began as a Norman structure with late Gothic elements before undergoing major reconstruction in 1618 to achieve its current baroque appearance. The transformation was completed and formally consecrated a few years after construction began.

This church serves as the heart of a larger religious community that has shaped the spiritual life of Palermo for centuries. Visitors can observe how the space continues to be a place where faith and daily devotion meet.

The church is easily accessible on foot from central Palermo and provides various entry options for visitors with different mobility needs. It is wise to check opening times in advance, especially on Sundays or religious holidays when services take place.

Beneath the church lies the Capuchin Catacombs, underground passages carved in Gothic style during the late 1500s, housing hundreds of preserved remains. This hidden section offers an unexpected glimpse into how past generations approached burial practices.

Location: Palermo

Inception: 1565

Architectural style: baroque architecture

GPS coordinates: 38.11172,13.33944

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03