Basilica Santa Caterina

Basilica Santa Caterina is a church with three naves supported by round arches, featuring a facade of contrasting dark gray lava stone and light gray plaster elements. The 50-meter bell tower beside the building rises prominently and is visible from many spots around town.

Construction began in 1695 after previous churches were destroyed by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, prompting residents to relocate southward. These natural disasters triggered the town's relocation and the building of this new sanctuary in its new location.

The interior walls display frescoes by Giovanni Lo Coco depicting scenes from the lives of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Catherine of Alexandria. These artworks shape the space and tell religious stories to visitors.

Access is through a wide churchyard with steps that are easy to spot. The bell tower serves visitors as a visual reference point for finding the building within town.

The church roof is covered with polychrome tiles, representing one of the most notable examples of this architectural detail in Sicily. These colorful tiles are especially visible from below and give the spire a distinctive appearance.

Location: Pedara

Inception: 1695

Architectural style: Sicilian Baroque

GPS coordinates: 37.61884,15.06122

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:26