Chiesa del Carmine
A Baroque masterpiece in Scicli, Sicily, featuring exquisite stucco work and a revered Madonna del Carmine statue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Chiesa del Carmine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Baroque masterpiece in Scicli, Sicily, featuring exquisite stucco work and a revered Madonna del Carmine statue.
"A jewel of Baroque architecture, a must-see for those who love art and the authenticity of Sicily."
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate stucco work and the Madonna statue for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Scicli's Charm
Combine your church visit with exploring Scicli's streets and Baroque beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Madonna del Carmine Statue
Main Altar
A stunning 1760 statue by Francesco Castro, depicting the Madonna holding the Child, enhanced by exquisite stucco work.
Baroque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the harmonious facade and the 18th-century stucco decorations that define this Baroque jewel.
Cultural Walk Experience
Inside the Church
Engage in historical walks detailing the life of the Carmelites who once resided here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Scicli's Baroque Charm
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate stucco work and the Madonna statue for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Scicli's Charm
Combine your church visit with exploring Scicli's streets and Baroque beauty.
💡 Learn the History
Consider joining a guided walk to understand the Carmelite history.
📍 Piazza Busacca Location
The church is beautifully situated in Piazza Busacca, near the canal.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate stucco work and the Madonna statue for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Scicli's Charm
Combine your church visit with exploring Scicli's streets and Baroque beauty.
💡 Learn the History
Consider joining a guided walk to understand the Carmelite history.
📍 Piazza Busacca Location
The church is beautifully situated in Piazza Busacca, near the canal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Chiesa del Carmine in Scicli as a jewel of Baroque architecture, highlighting its harmonious facade, exquisite 18th-century stucco decorations, and the beautiful Madonna del Carmine statue. Many appreciate the atmosphere of contemplation and the historical insights gained from cultural walks, calling it a must-see for art and Sicily lovers.
"In the heart of Scicli, amidst cobbled streets and a timeless atmosphere, stands the Church of the Madonna del Carmine, a jewel of Baroque architecture. Its simple yet harmonious façade welcomes visitors with discreet elegance. Inside, the light enhances the 18th-century stucco decorations and the splendid statue of the Madonna, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and beauty. A place that recounts the history and spirituality of a marvelous city. A must-see for those who love art and the authenticity of Sicily."
Rossella
"The church, in the center of Scicli, dates back together with the eastern wing of the convent to the second half of the 18th century, designed by the Carmelite architect Fra Alberto Maria di San Giovanni Battista.
A single nave plan preceded by a double-apsed narthex and ending in a semicircular apse in the center of which is the marble altar.
On the main altar is a statue of the Madonna del Carmine holding the Child, a work created in 1760 by Francesco Castro.
The stuccoes are by Gianforma."
Paolo Oddo
"Inside the church I took part in a cultural walk with historical and cultural stories about the life of the Carmelites who lived in Scicli."
giovanna dinatale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chiesa del Carmine is located in the heart of Scicli, easily accessible by foot within the town center. If arriving by car, look for parking in designated areas outside the historic center and enjoy a scenic walk.
Scicli is part of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is well-connected by road. It's a popular day trip destination from cities like Ragusa, Modica, and Noto.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Chiesa del Carmine is generally free, though donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Opening hours can vary, especially if there are ongoing events or restoration work. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs posted at the entrance.
Visitors are welcome to attend services, but it's respectful to remain quiet and observe the proceedings.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted inside churches for personal use, but it's always best to be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services.
The main altar with the Madonna statue and the intricate stucco decorations are prime subjects. The exterior facade and its setting in Piazza Busacca also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
🎫 🏛️ History & Art
Chiesa del Carmine in Scicli is a notable example of Baroque architecture, characterized by its harmonious facade and rich interior stucco decorations.
The church and the eastern wing of the convent were designed in the latter half of the 18th century by the Carmelite architect Fra Alberto Maria di San Giovanni Battista.
The main altar features a significant 1760 statue of the Madonna del Carmine holding the Child, created by Francesco Castro, and is adorned with stuccoes by Gianforma.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit with exploring the charming streets of Scicli, which often feature in the popular 'Commissario Montalbano' series, can make the outing more engaging for the whole family. Look for opportunities to discuss the history of the Carmelites in a simple, engaging way.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Take time to study the architectural details and the narrative elements within the stuccoes. If available, participating in a guided cultural walk can provide deeper insights into the Carmelite order's presence and influence in Scicli, enriching your understanding of the site's historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Baroque Splendor of Scicli
The interior is a testament to Baroque artistry, featuring a single nave adorned with exquisite stucco decorations by Gianforma. The focal point is the main altar, where the 1760 statue of the Madonna del Carmine by Francesco Castro captivates visitors. This blend of architecture, sculpture, and decorative arts creates an atmosphere of profound beauty and spiritual contemplation.
Beyond its artistic merit, the church offers a glimpse into the history of the Carmelite order in Scicli. Visitors can sometimes participate in cultural walks that delve into the lives of the friars who once inhabited the adjacent convent, adding a layer of historical narrative to the visual splendor.
Experiencing the Madonna del Carmine
Adding to the visual richness surrounding the statue are the intricate stucco works that adorn the church's interior. These decorative elements, attributed to Gianforma, complement the Baroque style and enhance the overall sense of grandeur and artistry. The interplay of light and shadow on these stuccoes can create a truly moving experience for visitors.
Some accounts mention a unique interactive element where inserting a coin can illuminate the statue and its horse, described as a 'true marvel.' This feature, if available, offers a memorable way to appreciate the artistry and devotion associated with the Madonna.
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