Things to do in Nicosia Italy – what to see attractions and activities

The Cathedral of Nicosia was founded in 1856 by Monsignor Milana and a tombstone placed at the entrance of the sacristy attests to its occurrence. It was dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari and represents the most significant architectural work of the Sicilian city. The main facade has a greater portal of Gothic-Norman style, where there are also Romanesque motifs such as acanthus leaves and twisted ropes. The Portico, on the other hand, dates back to the end of the fifteenth century and is the work of the sculptors of Palermo Gabriele De Battista and Andra Mancino.

The Church of SS. Salvatore was built between the 11th and 12th centuries on a majestic and mighty fortress of Quartzarenite that dominates the town of Nicosia. The building covers an area of about three hundred square meters and consists of a single nave, a chapel dedicated to Santa Rita and the rooms of the sacristy arranged on two elevations. Works from the 17th century are preserved within the Church, such as the “Madonna of Consolation” by Don Antonino Cardella and the “Climb to Calvary” by Nicola Mirabella.

The Bell Tower is an excellent example of Gothic-Norman architecture of the Sicily region and is part of the Cathedral of Nicosia. It was recently rebuilt as long ago it was damaged by lightning at the top.

The Basilica of S. Maria Maggiore of Nicosia was built in 1767 on the place where the original Basilica was previously built in the Norman era and destroyed in 1757 during a landslide. The structure of the building has a splendid Baroque portal and the interior is dominated by the six-story monumental work “Cona” by Antonello Gagini built in 1511. There are also historical materials such as the so-called Chair by Charles V, in which the emperor sat down in his visit to Nicosia in 1535.

The Church of San Michele has historical news dating back to the fourteenth century. It was built at the behest of Count Roger and donated to the Abbot of the Monastery of Patti. The structure has two round apses and elegant frames. The windows were originally opened but over time they were closed. The façade seems to date back to the eighteenth century; in a prominent position we find the fifteenth-century tower consisting of three floors.

The Castle of Nicosia is located in the highest part of the city. The structure consisted of 4 towers where all the soldiers lived. The building was built in such a way that it was protected from enemies. Outside the walls there were small buildings that were used to warn the inhabitants of dangers. In 1065 the building was purchased by Count Roger who made it a fortress. Today there are few things left of the castle that prove its existence.