Ex Chiesa di San Mattia ai Crociferi - Palermo

The former Church of San Mattia and the Crociferi Novitiate form one architectural complex built in the 17th century, for the ancient order of the Crociferi Fathers.

The main facade, which overlooks Via Torremuzza in the heart of the Kalsa district, combines the austerity of the late Renaissance with the plastic power of the stone elements. Characteristic of the period is the stucco medallion above the main portal, depicting Saint Matthias , supported by two winged cherubs.

In the year 1686, the novitiate house was expanded and the entire complex was consolidated including the construction of the lantern on the dome , as well as the construction of the seventeenth-century spiral staircase consisting of 111 steps to connect the different levels of the building. The building is characterized by a rather rare architectural structure, octagonal in shape, topped by a huge dome.

The interior is essential and austere but very evocative, with the few surviving frescoes and a simple spiral staircase leading to the corridors of the former monastery .

Right wall: Chapel of the Crucifix. The Madonna della Grazia, depicted in a painting, is venerated at the foot of the crucifix .

Left wall: Chapel of the Visitation . Painting of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary to Saint Elizabeth.

The church and the novitiate have been municipal property since 1886 and having completely lost their function as a place of worship , they are currently the headquarters of the Department of the Historic Center of the Municipality of Palermo and are used as offices and exhibition spaces for hosting of exhibitions and cultural events.

Willem Vandenameele