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CulturalHeritageOnline: Cathedral square

Cathedral square


The splendid square in the historic center of Syracuse.

The Piazza del Duomo called "Cathedral of the Nativity of Holy Mary" rises on the elevated part of the island of Ortigia, incorporating what was the main sacred temple in the Doric style of the Syrakousai polis, dedicated to Athena (Minerva) and converted into a church with the advent of Christianity.

Considered the most important church in the city of Syracuse, it became part of the heritage protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Its style is mainly Baroque and Rococo on the outside, while inside it alternates parts dating back to the Siceliot era, since they belong to the Greek temple and parts dating back to the Middle Ages, built by the Normans towards the seventeenth century and thus left up to the present day. 

Its internal structure is composed of several naves and chapels, which have a classic and decorated style, also typical of the Baroque.

Of great religious significance, it houses statues, relics and remains of Syracusan saints, martyrs and nobles. Its furnishings have seen the succession of artists from various parts of Italy and abroad.

Always a symbol of Syracusan religiosity, the cathedral went through the various historical and cultural phases of the city.



Cathedral square
Address: Piazza Duomo, 96100
Phone:
Site:

Location inserted by Sergio Contrafatto

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