The Martorana, also Co-Cathedral of St. Mary of the Admiral church, is characterized by wonderful Byzantine interiors. A stunning church with incredible decorations is definitely one of the most important historical monuments of Palermo.
The original church had a cross-inscribed base dome on an octagonal drum supported by four columns connected by moderately pointed arches, arms covered with barrel vaults and square angular spans covered with cross vaults. Originally the church was preceded by a portico with atrium and the bell tower, still visible today, which has two lower orders decorated with lava stone inlays with stellar polygons of Islamic origin, and two upper orders enriched by numerous columns that enhance the light-dark effects.
The interior of the ancient church is decorated with mosaics of excellent workmanship: the pictorial cycle (1143-1148) is in fact one of the best examples of Byzantine mosaics from that period. The focal point of the composition is the Christ Pantocrator in the top of the dome, surrounded by four angels in adoration. It is an absolute masterpiece and a must see for all visitors.
In the drum there are eight prophets and, in the corner four evangelists. The rest of the decoration celebrates the figure of the Virgin, to whom the church is dedicated. The fine marble flooring in opus sectile, well preserved, faithfully reflects Byzantine models, although, however, some ornamental motifs clearly point out the influence of Islamic culture.
The church, now called Saint Nikolas of the Greeks, is still a point of reference for a vast community of faithful Greek Orthodox.
Ticket price for the Martorana
Regular ticket price: € 2,00
Reduced ticket price: € 1,00 (for students and groups of at least 10 persons)
Working hours of the Martorana
The Martorana is open every day from 09:30am to 1:00pm (last entrance at 12:30pm) and from 3:30pm to 5:30 pm (last entrance at 5:00pm)
Sundays – from 09:00am to 10:30am.
