Opened for worship on 6 May 1658, it is located in Ragusa Ibla in Piazza della Repubblica, better known as Piazza degli Archi due to the arches of an aqueduct that surmounted the neighborhood until the terrible earthquake of 1693, from which the Church emerged unscathed... #UNESCO #tuttitaly
The Church of the Most Holy Souls of Purgatory stands imposingly in Ragusa Ibla, specifically in Piazza della Repubblica, also known as Piazza degli Archi for the ancient aqueduct arches that once dominated the neighborhood.
Built in the late Baroque style, the Mazza family initiated this sumptuous church in the second half of the 17th century.
Initially dedicated to All Saints and the Souls of Purgatory, it was opened for worship in 1658.
Despite the fury of the 1693 earthquake that devastated the region of Val di Noto and caused the old Cathedral of Ragusa Ibla to collapse, the Church of the Most Holy Souls of Purgatory miraculously remained intact.
The bell tower, erected in the early 18th century, stands alone, separated from the church, and rests on a section of the ancient Byzantine walls of the castle of Ragusa.
Over the years, the church underwent various transformations and in 1740 was rebuilt with an impressive basilica layout with three naves, complemented by two chapels and a vast presbytery with apse. Only in 1757 was the splendid facade completed, still enchanting visitors to this day.
The Church of the Most Holy Souls of Purgatory represents a place of deep spirituality and an icon of resistance and beauty that testifies to Ragusa Ibla's history and grandeur.
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