Chiesa del Gesù

Overview

The Chiesa del Gesù (Casa Professa) is the first Jesuit church in Sicily, a riot of polychrome marble inlay, stucco, and frescoes covering every centimetre of the interior. It is one of the most exuberantly decorated Baroque churches in Italy.

Highlights

• Marble Inlay: Walls covered in elaborate floral patterns of cut coloured marble (pietra dura).
• Baroque Ceiling Frescoes: Dramatic painted vaults depicting Jesuit saints and allegories.
• Cloister: A quiet courtyard accessible from the church, with a citrus garden.

History

Begun in 1564, the church suffered bombing in 1943 that destroyed the roof and much of the decoration. A meticulous restoration lasting decades returned it to its original splendour.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free entry; often empty despite its magnificence.
• Tip 2: The cloister hosts the municipal library.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.