San Placido, Baroque church in central Catania, Italy
San Placido is a baroque church in central Catania distinguished by its three-part facade of white stucco with tall Corinthian columns framing each section. The interior holds a single nave decorated with gold leaf details and receives light from windows positioned along the walls.
The church began in 1409 on the site of an ancient Roman temple dedicated to Bacchus. After the earthquake of 1693 destroyed much of Catania, it was rebuilt in the baroque style visible today.
The monastery connected to this church now houses the State Archives of Catania, where the public comes to research historical documents. This repurposing shows how sacred spaces continue to serve the community in different ways.
The main entrance is reached by ascending a broad staircase that leads to a recessed doorway in the center of the facade. Take time to observe the architectural details from street level before entering, as the exterior offers much to see.
The facade was designed by architect Stefano Ittar in a style that echoes the work of the renowned Roman architect Borromini. The construction used stone and materials transported from the distant cities of Taormina and Siracusa.
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