The Duomo Antico di Santo Stefano in Milazzo stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Sicilian history, nestled within the fortified walls of the ancient city. This grand cathedral, one of the largest in Milazzo, invites visitors to explore its storied past and architectural splendor, offering a glimpse into the vibrant cultural heritage of this coastal town.
The origins of the Duomo Antico date back to the early 17th century, with construction commencing in 1607. The design, attributed to the renowned architect Camillo Camilliani, showcases a mannerist style that reflects the architectural trends of the period. Under the watchful eye of architect Giuseppe Gasdia, the cathedral rose alongside the fortified structures of the city, adapting to the military needs of the time. The cathedral's construction required the demolition of two older churches, St. Nicholas and St. Anthony Abbot, which had long stood as spiritual beacons within the city walls.
Consecrated in 1616, even before its completion in 1642, the Duomo Antico was further enhanced by the addition of two apsidal chapels, credited to the artistic vision of Pietro Novelli. These chapels, alongside the main altar dedicated to St. Stephen, the city's patron, were consecrated in 1678, adding layers of spiritual and artistic depth to the cathedral's interior.
The cathedral's facade is a masterpiece of architectural design, featuring a cross-shaped layout that is both imposing and elegant. The main entrance, flanked by twin pilasters of living stone, invites visitors through a beautifully arched marble doorway. This entrance is adorned with Corinthian capitals and a Renaissance-style portal, complete with Ionic columns and a double pediment. The intricate decorations, including a Renaissance Madonna and Child, are framed by angels, adding a celestial touch to the earthly structure.
Above the entrance, a rectangular window is flanked by blind oculi that once housed a zodiac and a sundial, hinting at the cathedral's connection to celestial and temporal realms. The facade, with its elegant cornices and rich moldings, is a testament to the artistic and architectural prowess of its creators.
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Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a grand atrium leading into a vast square space, divided by powerful arches resting on Corinthian pillars. The interior layout, with its Greek cross design, features four corner chapels, each adorned with intricate marble altars and elegant domes. The choir, a rectangular extension, forms the apse, which once housed a richly inlaid altar now relocated to the Church of St. James the Apostle.
The cathedral's dome, a marvel of engineering, is designed without a drum to avoid interference with the fortifications above. Its spherical shape, punctuated by round windows and adorned with trompe-l'œil decorations, creates a grand illusion of space and light. The dome's interior features stucco decorations and frescoes depicting saints, adding a divine ambiance to the sacred space.
The right nave of the cathedral houses several chapels, each dedicated to different saints. The Chapel of the Madonna dell'Itria, the Chapel of the Crucifix, and the Chapel of St. Anthony Abbot each offer unique artistic and spiritual experiences. The left nave features the Chapel of St. Lucia and the monumental Altar of St. Stephen, adorned with Carrara marble angels and a medallion depicting the martyr. The altar's intricate design symbolizes the feudal orders, reflecting the complex social hierarchies of the time.
The Duomo Antico has witnessed numerous historical events, including its transformation into a military hospital during the War of Succession and its closure following damage during the Garibaldi-Bourbon conflicts in 1860. Despite periods of neglect, the cathedral has been lovingly restored, preserving its historical and architectural legacy for future generations.
Today, the Duomo Antico di Santo Stefano stands as a beacon of faith and history, inviting visitors to explore its sacred halls and discover the stories etched into its walls. Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty or its rich historical narrative, this cathedral offers a captivating journey through time, right in the heart of Milazzo.
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