Discover Serpotta’s Baroque masterpieces on a 3-hour tour. Unveil artistic secrets, captivating tales, and the mystery of the Caravaggio Nativity heist.
- Oratorio del Santissimo Rosario in San Domenico - This is the first of the three major oratorios of which the acclaimed art historian Rudolph Wittkower declared, “The three small oratories in Palermo which he [Serpotta] decorated prove him to be the greatest stuccoist that ever lived.”
- Oratorio di Santa Cita - In this beautiful oratorio we will discuss the context in which Serpotta lived and how that was reflected in his art, such as his teatrino (little theater) sculpture of the Battle of Lepanto. Seating is provided in this oratorio.
- La Vucciria - A guided walk through the famous la Vucciria neighborhood.
- Cagliostro Bakery - Our chance to stop for refreshments and use the restroom.
- Oratorio di San Lorenzo - Our final stop. Please note this location has a few unavoidable steps to climb.
- Guided walk through La Vucciria
- Entry tickets to all 3 Oratories
- Guides and languages: In-person: English
- Refreshments at Cafè.
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of three different but equally enchanting masterpiece works by the great Palermitano Baroque stucco sculptor Giacomo Serpotta. Hailed as “one of the greatest European sculptors of the 18th century,” and “a meteor in the Sicilian sky.” His delightful artistry has been beloved for centuries and is still awing viewers today.
On this tour, we will explore why Serpotta isn’t as well-known as Michelangelo. We will delve into the meanings of the tableaux in his signature teatrini (little theaters), his artistic techniques and innovations, and the mysteries surrounding him.
Our tour guides specialize in storytelling, bringing Serpotta’s masterpieces to life with captivating tales and expert commentary, including the ongoing mystery of the heist of the Caravaggio Nativity from the Oratory of San Lorenzo, and the recent almost miraculous replacement of that missing masterpiece.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
