Church of the Catalans

The Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani is a rare example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture in Messina, built between the 12th and 13th centuries and one of the few medieval buildings that survived the 1908 earthquake.

The Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani is located in the historic centre of Messina and is one of the city’s most significant medieval monuments. It was built between 1150 and 1200 during the Norman period, traditionally on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Neptune.

Over time, the church underwent structural changes, including a modification of its façade and architectural layout, likely due to earthquake damage and later rebuilding phases.

Its most remarkable feature is the blending of multiple architectural influences—Arab, Byzantine, Norman, and Romanesque—visible in its domes, arches, and decorative elements.

After the catastrophic earthquake of 1908, the surrounding urban level was raised, leaving the church partially below street level, which adds to its unique and striking appearance today.