Chiesa di Sant'Agostino (Church of Saint Augustine), Palermo

The Church of Saint Augustine (Chiesa di Sant'Agostino), located in the historic center of Palermo, near the bustling Capo market, is a significant Gothic landmark within the Seralcadio quarter. Known locally also as Santa Rita, this church is revered for its devotion to Saint Rita, an Augustinian saint.

Originally constructed during the Angevin period, the Church of Saint Augustine replaced an older church that dated back to the Hauteville era. Over the centuries, the church has undergone several renovations, including a notable 18th-century transformation by the sculptor Giacomo Serpotta who introduced lavish stucco decorations within its interiors.

The architecture of the church reflects a blend of medieval styles with later baroque influences. Its facade is characterized by a striking rose window featuring the Agnus Dei and is framed by twelve small columns. The main entrance showcases the distinctive Gothic-Catalan pattern with tuff and lava stone inlays. Additionally, the southern entrance, a work by Domenico Gagini and Giuliano Mancino, exemplifies the late Gothic style with intricate plant motifs intertwined with Old Testament scenes and houses a late Roman sarcophagus.

Inside, the church was extensively redecorated in the 18th century in a baroque style. Elegant white and gold bas-reliefs and stucco statues by Giacomo Serpotta adorn the interior, depicting various saints and allegorical figures of Virtue on clouds. Significant artworks include paintings of Saint Sebastian by G. Albina and Saint Thomas by G. Salerno. The church also features a 17th-century stuccoed wooden pulpit and a finely crafted golden wooden choir.

Adjacent to the church is a 16th-century cloister, preserving some medieval architectural elements. The cloister is enhanced by a graceful fountain and a baroque sarcophagus, adding to the historical and artistic richness of the site. This cloister serves as a tranquil counterpart to the richly decorated church interior.

The Church of Saint Augustine remains a treasure trove of art and architecture, representing various periods and styles, and continues to be a pivotal spiritual and cultural site in Palermo.