San Sebastiano

San Sebastiano is a Baroque basilica in Palazzolo Acreide featuring a monumental facade of pale stone adorned with paired pilasters and carved portals arranged in three tiers. The building sits on elevated ground and its spacious proportions and rich architectural detailing dominate the town's skyline.

After the devastating earthquake of 1693, construction of the new basilica began in 1721 and was completed in 1780. The rebuilding was part of a broader urban redesign that reshaped southeastern Sicily following the disaster.

Saint Sebastian is the town's patron, and his statue travels through the streets each year in a procession with a decorated cart and fireworks. People maintain a personal connection to the figure during the festivities and bring their children to the statue for blessing.

The basilica is reached via a monumental staircase with two flights built in the 1870s. Climbing to the church gives visitors a sense of the square's elevation and allows viewing the facade from different angles as you approach.

During the annual festivities, some infants wear necklaces carrying banknotes intended to bring family blessings and good fortune. This practice combines religious devotion with hopes for personal prosperity.

Location: Palazzolo Acreide

Inception: 1721

Architectural style: baroque architecture

Website: https://sansebastiano.org/storia_basilica.html

GPS coordinates: 37.06131,14.90423

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:06