Via dei Crociferi
Catania’s most refined baroque street, with four churches and monasteries packed into less than 200 meters and an entrance through the Arch of Saint Benedict.
Via dei Crociferi is the densest stretch of baroque architecture in Catania within the Val di Noto UNESCO World Heritage Site. Passing through the Arch of Saint Benedict, you will see, one after another, the Church of San Benedetto (with a richly decorated interior, and the monastery can be visited), the Church of San Francesco Borgia, the Church of San Giuliano, and more. The street is quiet and car-free, making it ideal for leisurely photography. The Church of San Giuliano occasionally opens its roof for views. It is about a 5-minute walk from the cathedral square and can be combined with the Benedictine monastery and the Roman Theatre.
Opening hours
Open all day (church hours vary; mostly about 9:00 am–1:00 pm)
Nearby sights
- Via Etnea
- Museo Civico Belliniano
- Roman Amphitheatre of Catania
- Roman Theatre of Catania
- Piazza del Duomo & Elephant Fountain, Catania
- Terme Achilliane
- La Pescheria, Catania
- Badia di Sant'Agata