Agrigento Cathedral

Agrigento Cathedral, also known locally as Cattedrale di San Gerlando, stands majestically atop the hill of Girgenti in the ancient city of Agrigento, Sicily. This stunning cathedral, with its rich history and architectural splendor, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the enduring spirit and cultural heritage of the region.

The History of Agrigento Cathedral

The origins of Agrigento Cathedral date back to the Norman period, a time when Sicily was undergoing significant transformations under the rule of the Normans. The cathedral was founded in 1088 by Gerlando di Besançon, a cousin of the Great Count Roger I of Sicily, who was appointed as the bishop of Agrigento. The construction began shortly after the Norman conquest of the city in 1087 and was completed in 1094. Originally dedicated to the Madonna Assunta, the cathedral was later rededicated to San Gerlando, the patron saint of Agrigento, in 1315.

The cathedral has witnessed numerous reconstructions and restorations due to the unstable terrain and frequent earthquakes. In 1198, a landslide caused significant damage, leading to a series of rebuilding efforts over the centuries. The 13th century saw the cathedral being used as a military stronghold by Frederick II of Swabia, reflecting the turbulent times and the strategic importance of the location.

Exploring Agrigento Cathedral

Visitors to Agrigento Cathedral are greeted by an impressive façade that blends various architectural styles, from Norman to Gothic to Baroque. The southern façade features decorative elements reminiscent of the Plateresque style, with blind windows and the weathered coat of arms of the Montaperto family. The grand staircase leading up to the main entrance is a marvel in itself, consisting of five flights of steps flanked by pairs of tufa pillars and artistic iron railings.

The main façade is composed of two superimposed orders, crowned by a pediment. The central portal, with its Renaissance marble arch, is flanked by pilasters and surmounted by an architrave bearing a cartouche, a coat of arms, and a small pediment. The large central oculus with a stained glass window adds to the façade's grandeur. The right side of the cathedral features a double flight of stairs leading to a secondary entrance, adorned with five stone mullioned windows and a classical marble portal.

The Interior of Agrigento Cathedral

Stepping inside, the cathedral's Latin cross layout unfolds, with three naves separated by pointed arches resting on octagonal pillars. The central nave's ceiling showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting the various periods of restoration. The trussed roof from 1511-1514 is adorned with painted figures of saints, biblical characters, and allegorical figures, while the coffered ceiling from the Spanish period features the double-headed eagle emblem of Charles V and other royal symbols.

The dome, created using the trompe-l'œil technique, is a visual delight, with the cardinal virtues depicted in the pendentives, the work of the artist Michele Blasco. The transept ceilings, rich with gilded coffers, and the richly stuccoed and frescoed apse vaults, add to the cathedral's opulent interior.

Notable Chapels and Artifacts

Among the many chapels within Agrigento Cathedral, the Chapel of the Most Holy Crucifix stands out. Located in the first bay of the right nave, it houses a 17th-century altar made of mixed marbles, containing the silver urn of San Gerlando, crafted by Michele Ricca in 1639. The chapel also features a wooden choir and a 17th-century statue of the dead Christ.

The cathedral is also home to two magnificent organs, golden candlesticks, silver vases, and other precious liturgical items, reflecting the wealth and artistic patronage of the church over the centuries. The silver ark of San Gerlando, another masterpiece by Michele Ricca, is a highlight of the cathedral's treasures.

Recent Restorations and Current Status

Over the years, the cathedral has undergone numerous restoration projects to preserve its structural integrity and artistic heritage. Significant restorations were carried out between 1888 and 1902 by Giuseppe Patricolo, followed by further works by Giuseppe Rao, Francesco Valenti, and others. In 1959, Pope Pius XII elevated the cathedral to the status of a minor basilica.

In 2011, the cathedral was declared unsafe due to the friability of the rocky spur on which it stands, leading to its closure to the public. However, a portion of the monument was reopened in 2014 for religious and tourist purposes, and by 2019, the entire structure was fully reopened following extensive restoration and consolidation efforts.

A visit to Agrigento Cathedral is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Sicilian history and culture. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and religious importance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting island of Sicily.