The current building stands opposite the Cathedral of Monreale, on the west side of Piazza Guglielmo II, next to the outer wall of the first urban layout. It incorporates one of the towers of the original Norman defence system. The perimeter wall over the square has medieval parts on the inside wall of the church. The current location of the entrance certainly appears to be conditioned by the presence of the processional road built in 1583 by Archbishop Ludovico Torres I. The hall, of linear proportions with a longitudinal plan, is cadenced by an architectural and sculptural decoration in stucco, consisting of entablature and string-course cornices intersected by fluted pilasters that punctuate a harmonious sculptural and iconographic display of allegorical personifications. On the inner side of the church, a wall from the Norman period decorated with "blind ogival architecture" has been unearthed and is below the current walking level of both the church and the square, which is why steps have to be descended to enter. The church has a rectangular plan with a single nave and it is the first church in Monreale to disregard the positioning of the altar to the east. The main façade is characterised by a portal in plastered stone, surmounted by a square window set on an axis. The door is made of wood. The interior of the church is decorated with stuccos by Serpotta and statues in high relief. The figures alternate with large mixtilinear frames with flowery festoons populated by winged cherubs holding frames and two side chapels recessed from the perimeter of the building. The cover is made of wood with matching white blades.
Source: Pro Loco
