Chiesa di Sant'Agostino

Frommer's Review

Even if you don't go inside, you won't miss much. The facade is the most beautiful part of this church, which was financed in the 13th century by two prominent Palermo dynasties, the Chiaramonte and Sciafani families. Both the lava-mosaic-enclosed main portal and the distinctive rose window are in the Norman architectural style.

In contrast to the classic medieval front is the interior, which was reconstructed with baroque adornment centuries later. Here you'll see the last stuccoes of followers of the Serpotta School, completed between 1711 and 1729. You can still see Serpotta's mark, a serpe (Sicilian for "lizard"). The medieval cloister was originally built in the Catalan Gothic style, surrounding a central fountain. Lying at a corner of the cloister, the chapter house preserves many of its original 13th-century architectural features. Embedded into the wall of the stairs leading from the church's side entrance is an ancient Roman tomb.

Sant'Agostino lies adjacent to Mercato di Capo, a busy street market and one of Palermo's more intriguing sights.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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