Church of San Gaetano alle Grotte, Early Christian church and archaeological site in Piazza Carlo Alberto, Catania, Italy.
The church consists of two distinct levels: an upper temple and a lower underground structure built within an ancient lava cave system.
Originally constructed between 260 and 300 AD as Santa Maria La Grotta, the church experienced multiple reconstructions following the Muslim conquest and the 1693 Sicily earthquake.
The underground church currently serves both Catholic ceremonies and hosts services for the Moldovan Orthodox Church of Parohia Sfintei Muceniţe Agafia din Catania.
Visitors need to descend a steep narrow staircase made of lava stone to access the underground crypt, which contains ancient architectural elements.
The lower temple incorporated a natural water source and an ancient well, which caused frequent flooding before the structure became filled with sediment.
Location: Catania
Architectural style: Early Christian architecture
GPS coordinates: 37.50873,15.08827
Latest update: March 4, 2025 12:08
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