Description of the attraction
The Collegiate Basilica of San Sebastiano, located in Piazza Leonardo Vigo in Acireale, is one of the city's most significant Baroque buildings and is undoubtedly one of the symbols of the city. Until the 17th century, another church of Acireale was dedicated to Saint Sebastian, which is considered one of the oldest today. However, already at the beginning of the 17th century, it was not able to accommodate all believers, and in 1609 the construction of a new church began. The old church was dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua.
The current building of the Basilica of San Sebastiano, declared a national monument, was significantly rebuilt after the terrible earthquake of 1693. The facade of the basilica is made of white stone from Syracuse, designed by the architect Angelo Bellofiore (he was assisted by his students Diego and John Flavetta). In front of the façade there is a magnificent winding balustrade built in 1756 by Giovanni Battista Marina. It shows 10 statues depicting the heroes of the Old Testament. Particularly noteworthy are the architectural elements of the basilica - figurines, friezes, maskerons, festoons. After the devastating earthquake of 1693, such a joyous hymn to life was only possible within the Baroque style.
The interior of the basilica is made in the form of a Latin cross with three naves separated by pilasters. A dome rises above the transept. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes by Pietro Paolo Vasta - scenes from the lives of the saints are visible on the walls of the transept and the choir. The chapel of Santissimo Sacramento is decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ. Also noteworthy are the works of Francesco Mancini - they can also be seen on the walls of the transept and on the dome. To the right of the transept is the statue of Saint Sebastian, which is used in the annual religious procession. No less interesting from an artistic point of view are the altar of the Sorrowful Virgin Mary and the Trinity and the altar of Santi Cosma and Damian.
