Jesu Church

Jesu Church is one of the most important Baroque churches in the Italian city of Palermo. It is also a national monument and interesting for its many frescoes.

In 1549, the Jesuits arrived in Palermo, and at the end of the XVI began the construction of the church, the plan of which was designed by the architect Giovanni Tristan. But it was illuminated only in 1636. Later, in 1892, the knight Salvatore Di Pietro, a philanthropist and member of the Theological College, proposed to make this church a national monument.

During World War II, the dome and painted walls of the church were severely damaged. These frescoes were replaced during two years of restoration work, after which the church was reopened with a solemn mass chaired by Paolo Romeo, Archbishop of Palermo.

Visually, the facade is divided by a cornice into two parts. In the lower section there are three portals, above niches with statues of St. George. Ignatia, Madonna and Child and Francisco de Xaviera. The upper section is separated by pilasters and framed on both sides by statues of saints.

Inside, the church is decorated with polychrome marble, stucco and frescoes. In particular, marble reliefs with their figurative and ornamental motifs on pillars, as well as marble mosaics are recognized as unique.