The Mother Church of San Cataldo
San Cataldo boasts 18 churches , seven of which are parish churches. Among these, the Mother Church , the seat of the archpriest and the city's main place of worship.
History and Architecture
Featuring a three-nave Latin cross layout, the Mother Church was consecrated in 1739 by Monsignor Pietro Galletti, bishop and brother of the village's founder, Nicolò Galletti. The building is dedicated to the Immaculate Virgin .
During the twentieth century, the structure faced serious problems due to the landslide-prone nature of the terrain; these problems forced its closure in 1965, only to be finally reopened in 1979. Recently, between December 2018 and 2019, the church underwent further meticulous restoration. Today, the parish is governed by Archpriest Alessandro Giambra .
Artistic Heritage and Faith
The interior houses works of considerable artistic and devotional value, including:
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Paintings: The Nativity of Mary (1781) by Carmelo Riggi and the Adoration of the Shepherds , an anonymous work from the eighteenth century.
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Sculptures: A precious ivory crucifix St. Michael the Archangel and that of the Immaculate Conception , patron saint of the city.
The Mother Church is also a place of historical memory: here lie the remains of illustrious local personalities, such as Archbishop Cataldo Naro , Archbishop Alberto Vasallo (former Apostolic Nuncio) and the Servant of God Marianna Amico Roxas .
The dependent rectories
The administration of the Mother Church coordinates several rectories distributed throughout the urban area:
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SS. Sacramento (U Rato): Adjacent to the church and recently renovated.
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Saint Joseph.
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Saint Anthony the Abbot: Dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
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Lord of Mysteries: Located in Calvary Square.
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Our Lady of the Chain.
photo by Carlo Falzone.
