Church of Santa Maria La Nuova (Mother Church)
Its construction dates back to the beginning of the sixteenth century, when it was built to replace, following the expansion of the territory of Licata towards the sea, the Romanesque church of Santa Maria di Gesù, dating back to the sixth century. The new church was built in the terminal part of the Cassarello, which today is called Corso Vittorio Emanuele.
The project was signed by Pietro Palatino, who designed a Renaissance-style basilica structure on aisles, with three entrances. The new church was inaugurated in 1508.
With a statute drawn up on 10 April 1771, the temple is elevated to the dignity of a collegiate church (Venerable Insigne Secular Collegiate) with papal bull of Pope Clement XII.
The church, dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, was given the name of "Santa Maria la Nuova" to distinguish it from "Santa Maria la Vetere", as the other church was renamed.
Over the centuries the church has been damaged several times and has undergone numerous restorations. In 1988 a fire seriously damaged it, making it necessary to close the building, which was re-inaugurated on May 31, 1996.
The church houses the chapel of the Black Christ
(Text source: Wikipedia)
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Photo: Ignazio Caloggero
Information contributions: Ignazio Caloggero Web,
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