The discovery of an icon depicting the Virgin and Child around the middle of the 17th century prompted the construction of the church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli in Ragusa Ibla. Considered a miraculous event, the find led to the creation of a sanctuary whose design departs noticeably from standard Iblean Baroque architecture.
What to see
The church features an elongated octagonal ground plan, an unusual arrangement for the region suggesting the architect was influenced by Roman Baroque design. Outside, the three entrance portals display detailed and original stone carvings. The building remains unfinished, as its facades lack a second tier and it was never fitted with its planned roof, which was likely intended to be a pavilion vault.
Visiting
The church was officially closed to worship in 1951. Following its deconsecration, its sacred furnishings were removed and relocated to the nearby Cathedral of San Giorgio, including a painting depicting the Virgin and Child with a holy bishop and a holy monk.
Our editors' tip
To view the artworks that once decorated this sanctuary, combine a stop at the church's exterior with a visit to the Cathedral of San Giorgio, where the painting of the Virgin, Child, and saints is now housed.