Designed by the Baroque architect Vaccarini in the first half of the 18th century, the church of the Spirito Santo is the main parish church of Nicolosi. It was erected to replace an earlier sanctuary destroyed during the volcanic eruption of 1669 and the earthquake of 1693, which was originally situated along the old thoroughfare linking Belpasso and Pedara. The interior is structured around a single nave with a double Latin cross layout.
What to see
The exterior illustrates how local building traditions evolved over time. The sanctuary was originally numbered among the Etna region's "black churches," recognized for their extensive decorative use of dark volcanic basalt. In the late 19th century, the rectangular front was refinished in white sandstone, though the lava stone edging was preserved. Positioned alongside the main façade as an independent structure, the bell tower has remained unchanged since 1721. Resting on a double lava stone base, it features three horizontal cornices demarcating the clock, the bells, and the spire, alongside the mysterious inscription "L 121". Inside, key artworks include a 16th-century wooden crucifix and a 17th-century wooden choir stall topped by plaster bas-reliefs of the Last Supper by V. Torre.
Visiting
During Lent, the church hosts a unique local tradition centered around a vast 1846 liturgical canvas. Hand-sewn by local women and painted by Giuseppe De Stefani in shades ranging from turquoise to ultramarine blue, this 20-meter-high linen artwork depicts the Deposition from the Cross. It conceals the main altar throughout Lent before being dropped on Easter Sunday.
Our editors' tip
Examine the lower section of the bell tower to see the original dark basalt stonework, which offers a clear visual contrast to the 19th-century white sandstone facade.