Chiesa del Gesù (Casa Professa)
Chiesa del Gesù
The first Jesuit church in Sicily, its interior covered with coloured marble inlays and stucco decoration. It is the ultimate expression of Sicilian Baroque.
The Chiesa del Gesù, also known as the Casa Professa, was built by the Jesuits in the second half of the 16th century, and it was decorated over more than two centuries from the 17th century onward. Almost every inch of its interior walls is covered in 'mixed-colour marble' inlays, reliefs and stucco angels, with colours and patterns so intricate they can dazzle the eye. It is one of the most lavishly decorated Baroque churches in Sicily. The church was damaged during World War II and later restored. Admission is a few euros, and it is only a few minutes' walk from the Ballarò market, so it's easy to visit on the way.
Opening hours
About 09:30–13:00, 15:00–18:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Ballarò Market
- La Martorana & San Cataldo
- Fontana Pretoria
- Santa Caterina Church & Monastery
- Quattro Canti
- Palermo Historic Centre
- La Vucciria
- San Giovanni degli Eremiti