Description of the attraction
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini in Palermo is considered one of the most interesting examples of the Sicilian Baroque architectural style. Located in the urban quarter of Albergeria near Piazza Villena, it bears the name of St. Joseph and the Catholic order of the Teatins. A member of this order was the architect Giacomo Bezio from Genoa, who began building the church at the beginning of the 17th century. At the center of its majestic yet simple façade is a statue of Gaetan of Tiena, the founder of the order. The huge dome with blue and yellow majolica stripes deserves special attention. The double-column vestibule was designed by the architect Giuseppe Mariani, and the bell tower was designed by Paolo Amato. The left façade of the church overlooks Piazza Villena, also known as Quattro Canti, and is organically integrated into its architectural ensemble.
Inside, the church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini consists of a central nave and two side chapels, which are separated by marble columns of different heights. Such Baroque masters as Paolo Corso and Giuseppe Serpotta worked on the decoration of the church. In addition, frescoes by Philippe Tancredi, Guglielmo Borremanza and Giuseppe Velazquez can be seen on the ceiling. Despite the fact that these works of art were seriously damaged during the Second World War, they were restored with millimeter precision. Another valuable relic is the wooden crucifix made by Fra Umile of Petralia. And in the crypt, the remains of an ancient church that once stood on this site, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin of Providence, have survived to this day.
Today, at the Church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini, there is the Association of Catholics "San Giuseppe Maria Tomasi", which, among other things, is involved in helping the poor - in its care is 31 families. The members of the association, which are about 40 people, are also involved in spiritual education and prayer.
