Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta e San Nicolò Vescovo

The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta and San Nicolò Vescovo is located in the charming town of Montalbano Elicona, in the province of Messina, in Sicily. The basilica dates back to the 12th century, and was built to commemorate the martyrdom of St Nicholas of Myra and to unite the territories of Montalbano and Nicodamus. The church is most well known for its facade, adorned with sculptures of apostles, saints, and the four evangelists along with a geometric patterned mosaic. On the left side is a terrace, known as a solarium, where visitors can take in the spectacular view of the gentle Sicilian countryside. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful mosaics on the walls and domes, painted and glazed tiles, and the gilded stucco altars and walls by the famous Sicilian painter Antonello Gagini. Historians believe that before the basilica was built, it was the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Diana. A visit to this exquisite basilica is a must for those wishing to explore the unique beauty of the Sicilian landscape.