Church of the Martorana

Overview

The Church of the Martorana (Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio) is a Greek Orthodox-rite church on Piazza Bellini, celebrated for its luminous 12th-century Byzantine mosaics. It is part of the UNESCO Arab-Norman Palermo World Heritage Site.

Highlights

• Byzantine Mosaics: Original gold-ground mosaics from 1143 include a Nativity, Annunciation, and a rare portrait of Roger II crowned by Christ.
• Baroque Additions: 17th-century frescoes in the nave contrast with the medieval apse mosaics.
• Greek-Rite Liturgy: Mass is still celebrated in the Byzantine rite, a legacy of Palermo's Greek community.

History

Admiral George of Antioch, Roger II's chief minister, founded the church in 1143. The Benedictine convent of the Martorana family took it over in 1433, adding the Baroque extensions.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free entry; small donation appreciated.
• Tip 2: Look for the mosaic of Roger II — it's one of the few contemporary portraits of a medieval king.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.