Santa Maria dell'Elemosina, Minor basilica in Biancavilla, Italy.
Santa Maria dell'Elemosina is a baroque church in Biancavilla distinguished by a Latin cross plan with three naves separated by robust pillars. A notable bell tower dominates the exterior view and houses the venerated Byzantine artwork inside.
The church was founded as a result of a remarkable event in 1482, when Greek-Albanian refugees brought a venerated religious artwork from the east. This event led not only to the establishment of the sanctuary but also to the birth of the human settlement at this location.
The church carries the name of a Byzantine icon that believers venerate as a depiction of the Mother of God. Visitors can still see the original artwork today, displayed in a special setting that shows the deep connection between this place and Eastern religious tradition.
The site welcomes visitors regularly for services and quiet prayer before the venerated artwork. Those wishing to explore the interior should wear respectful clothing and be aware that access may be restricted during religious ceremonies.
According to local tradition, the religious artwork that led to the church's founding was discovered entangled in the branches of a fig tree. This unusual discovery story remains connected to the place's identity and how believers understand the sanctuary's meaning today.
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