Background

Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola: A Renaissance Gem in Palermo

Explore Palermo's Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola, a 16th-century church with a rich history and stunning late-Renaissance architecture.

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The Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola is a 16th-century Roman Catholic church and monastery located on Piazza San Francesco di Paola in Palermo, Italy. Featuring a late-Renaissance style, it holds historical and artistic significance, initially dedicated to St. Oliva and later ceded to the order of Minims.

A brief summary to Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola

  • Monday 7:30 am-11 am
  • Tuesday 7:30 am-11 am
  • Wednesday 7:30 am-11 am
  • Thursday 7:30 am-11 am
  • Friday 7:30 am-11 am
  • Saturday 7:30 am-11 am
  • Sunday 8 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Check the church's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, as they can vary.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Villa Filippina cloister for a relaxing experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola is located on Piazza San Francesco di Paola. From the Teatro Massimo, walk approximately 15 minutes northwest along Via Maqueda, then turn left onto Via Volturno, and finally turn right onto Via Carini. The church will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Piazza San Francesco di Paola. You can take bus lines 101, 103, 104, 106, 118, 124, or TC. A single ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes. You can purchase tickets at AMAT kiosks, tobacco shops, or newsagents.

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Discover more about Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola

The Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola, situated on the piazza of the same name in Palermo, is a captivating landmark with a rich history. Originally dating back to the 14th century as a church dedicated to St. Oliva, it underwent significant transformations over the centuries. In the early 16th century, the church was ceded to the Minims, an order founded by St. Francis of Paola. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the site, with the construction of a church and cloistered monastery commencing around 1518. The architectural style evolved over time, transitioning from Gothic to a late-Renaissance design through subsequent refurbishments. The monastery complex also housed a notable library and hospital. After the suppression of the religious order in 1866, the convent was repurposed into barracks, reflecting the changing times. Today, the Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola stands as a testament to Palermo's layered past, inviting visitors to appreciate its artistic details and historical importance. Located a few hundred meters north of Porta Carini, a visit to the church offers a glimpse into the religious and architectural heritage of Palermo.

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