Santa Maria Assunta, Church building in Caltabellotta, Italy.
Santa Maria Assunta is a church building in Caltabellotta featuring Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture structured by three naves supported by twelve columns with pointed arches throughout. The building blends eastern and western architectural elements that reflect the region's layered history.
The building was originally erected during the Norman period as the Church of San Giorgio and underwent significant changes afterward. Following the 1968 earthquake, it was restored and granted basilica status in 1999.
The interior displays several chapels with artistic works, including a Murano glass mosaic depicting the Madonna and an octagonal baptismal font carved from limestone. These elements reflect the religious devotion that has been practiced here across generations.
The main entrance connects to a grand staircase, and the structure is regularly used for Catholic services under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Agrigento. Visitors should note that the church functions as an active place of worship and is best seen around service times.
Archaeological findings beneath the fifth chapel in the left nave reveal evidence of ancient pagan temples and an early Christian church. These discoveries show that the site was a center of worship across multiple religions and cultures.
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