Chiesa della Badia Nuova
A hidden Baroque gem near Palermo Cathedral, showcasing exquisite stucco work by the Serpotta brothers and a beautiful Madonna statue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see the interior masterpieces
Chiesa della Badia Nuova
Best Time
To see the interior masterpieces
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden Baroque gem near Palermo Cathedral, showcasing exquisite stucco work by the Serpotta brothers and a beautiful Madonna statue.
"You will be enchanted by the beauties to admire inside. Many masterpieces of Sicilian Baroque."
Volunteer-Led Tours
Seek out the passionate volunteers; their insights bring the church's history and art to life. :speech_balloon:
Check Opening Hours
Interior access can be limited. Confirm hours or inquire locally to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Interior Masterpieces
Interior
Discover a wealth of Sicilian Baroque art, including works by Serpotta and Novelli. A true hidden gem for art lovers.
Intricate Facade Details
Exterior
Admire the portal with ancient columns, a broken tympanum, and a beautiful 18th-century Madonna del Soccorso statue.
Serpotta's Sculptural Work
Interior (Subcoro)
Marvel at the detailed stucco work by Giacomo and Giuseppe Serpotta, dating back to 1693.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Interior Views
A Hidden Gem Near the Cathedral
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Volunteer-Led Tours
Seek out the passionate volunteers; their insights bring the church's history and art to life. :speech_balloon:
Check Opening Hours
Interior access can be limited. Confirm hours or inquire locally to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Proximity to Cathedral
Easily combined with a visit to Palermo Cathedral. A perfect quick stop.
Discover by Chance
Wander and stumble upon this gem; sometimes the best discoveries are unplanned. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Volunteer-Led Tours
Seek out the passionate volunteers; their insights bring the church's history and art to life. :speech_balloon:
Check Opening Hours
Interior access can be limited. Confirm hours or inquire locally to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Proximity to Cathedral
Easily combined with a visit to Palermo Cathedral. A perfect quick stop.
Discover by Chance
Wander and stumble upon this gem; sometimes the best discoveries are unplanned. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often discover Chiesa della Badia Nuova by chance and are enchanted by its hidden artistic treasures, particularly the Sicilian Baroque interior. The dedication of volunteers who passionately share the church's history and art is frequently highlighted as a positive aspect, making the visit memorable even when access is limited to the facade.
"We crashed someone's wedding which was beautiful and thoroughly entertaining. We wanted to see the real Sicily and this was part of it"
Bob Plunkett
"👍"
Leonardo Barraco
"Since it was closed when the traveler passed by, only the façade could be admired.
Although it was not possible to admire the interior, the view of the New Abbey, limited to the portal alone, was a moment of great beauty. The portal is embellished with two ancient columns and a broken tympanum, surmounted by a marble aedicule, whose niche contains a beautiful 18th-century statue of the Madonna del Soccorso holding the Child in her arms, surrounded below by two cherubs."
Michele Soldovieri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chiesa della Badia Nuova is conveniently located in Palermo's historic center, near the Cathedral. You can reach it by walking from the Cathedral or taking local buses that stop nearby. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, several bus routes serve the area around the Palermo Cathedral, making it accessible by public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
The church is situated on Via dell'Incoronazione, at the corner of Piazzetta Sett'Angeli, directly facing the apse of Palermo Cathedral. It's a very walkable area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the facade is free. For the interior, access is often dependent on the presence of volunteers. While not always requiring a ticket, a small donation is appreciated.
Opening hours can vary as access to the interior is often managed by volunteers. It's best to check locally or visit during typical daytime hours when volunteers are most likely to be present.
Yes, the interior is accessible, but its availability often depends on volunteer schedules. Many visitors report being able to see the interior thanks to dedicated volunteers.
There is typically no strict entrance fee for the interior, but donations are highly encouraged to support the upkeep of this beautiful church and its volunteers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Chiesa della Badia Nuova, but it's always respectful to ask volunteers if you're unsure, especially if using flash.
The facade with its detailed portal is a great spot, and the interior, particularly the stucco work by Serpotta and the altar, offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The exterior, especially the portal and its surrounding architecture, is very photogenic. Its location near the Cathedral also offers interesting compositional possibilities.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Chiesa della Badia Nuova is a notable example of Sicilian Baroque architecture, with significant contributions from artists like Serpotta.
The church was designed by architect Mariano Smeriglio and features decorative interventions attributed to the Serpotta workshop.
Originally part of the monastery of S. Maria di Monte Oliveto, it was built in the 17th century and houses important Baroque artworks, making it a significant cultural site in Palermo.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a treasure hunt for beautiful art. The volunteers, often passionate about the church, can sometimes engage children with simple stories or point out interesting details. Its location near the Cathedral also means you can combine it with more engaging activities for kids nearby.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the details in the subcoro and other decorative elements. The church also houses works by other significant artists like Novelli and Martorana, offering a comprehensive look at the artistic output of Palermo during its Baroque era.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Couples
Its location near the Cathedral makes it an ideal stop for a leisurely stroll through Palermo's historic center. Take your time to absorb the beauty of the Baroque interior and the detailed facade at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Legacy of Serpotta
Visitors often express awe at the intricate details and the sheer artistry of the Serpotta brothers' work. The stucco figures and decorative elements are not merely ornamental but convey a sense of movement and emotion, characteristic of the high Baroque style. Experiencing these masterpieces firsthand offers a profound glimpse into the artistic heritage of Sicily.
Beyond the Serpotta contributions, the church also houses other significant artworks, including pieces by Novelli and Martorana, further solidifying its status as an artistic treasure trove. The collective works within Chiesa della Badia Nuova make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Baroque art and sculpture.
A Hidden Gem Near Palermo Cathedral
Many visitors find this church by chance, describing it as a 'little-publicized gem.' The facade itself is beautiful, featuring ancient columns and a distinctive broken tympanum, topped with a niche housing an 18th-century statue of the Madonna del Soccorso. However, the true enchantment lies within its walls, which are adorned with numerous masterpieces of Sicilian Baroque art.
Its proximity to one of Palermo's most iconic landmarks means you can easily incorporate a visit to Chiesa della Badia Nuova into a broader exploration of the city's historical and religious sites. It offers a more intimate and less crowded experience compared to the bustling Cathedral, providing a moment of quiet contemplation and artistic appreciation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit