Church of Santa Maria della Provvidenza

The history of the Main Church of Zafferana Etnea, named after the Madonna of Providence, follows that of the many earthquakes that struck the Etna village. If its original construction dates back to 1731 by the will of Don Francesco Gagliano, dean of the Collegiata Basilica of Catania, its reconstructions and structural modifications follow one another over the centuries, defining not only its appearance but also its history. Such as the interventions of 1831, 1882 and even the more recent ones of 1997 which restored it, after the earthquake of 1984.

Despite these vicissitudes, the Main Church of Zafferana is the emblem of Sicilian baroque. An impressive facade dominates the square with its solemn presence, the chromatic contrast created by the white stone of the façade, the two twin bell towers placed on its sides and the black lava stone staircase. Its welcoming nave hosts various paintings by Giuseppe Sciuti (1834-1911), including the painting of St. Joseph.

Impossible not to notice the church during a walking in the city centre of Zafferana Etnea and impossible not to be intrigued by its history and architecture. The Main Church of Zafferana is a must-visit for all people who want to know not only nature and excellent food of this village but also its art and cultural traditions.