10 Things to Do in Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri Messina Italy
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri in Messina, Italy is a stunning piece of Baroque architecture and a popular tourist attraction. Built in the late 17th century, this grand church is the largest in Messina and is home to several important works of art. Whether you’re visiting Messina for a day or a week, here are 10 things to do in the Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri.
1. Admire the Exterior
The exterior of the Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is a sight to behold. The façade is adorned with two bell towers, each topped with a dome. The main entrance is framed by a large archway, and the entire building is decorated with ornate sculptures in a Baroque style.
2. Explore the Interior
The interior of the church is just as impressive as the exterior. The nave is decorated with stucco and frescoes, and the ceiling is painted with scenes from the life of Saint Joseph. The main altar is made of marble and is adorned with statues of the saints.
3. Admire the Artwork
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is home to several important works of art. The most famous is the painting of the Virgin and Child by Caravaggio, which hangs in the chapel of the same name. Other notable works include the painting of the Madonna of the Rosary by Filippo Paladini and the painting of the Crucifixion of Saint Peter by Francesco Mancini.
4. Visit the Crypt
The crypt of the Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is a fascinating place to explore. It houses the remains of several important figures, including the remains of Saint Joseph and the remains of Saint Peter. The crypt also contains several tombs from the 17th and 18th centuries.
5. Attend a Mass
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend mass. Masses are held daily, and there are special services for feast days and other important occasions.
6. Explore the Museum
The church also houses a small museum, which contains several artifacts related to the history of the church and the city of Messina. The museum is open daily and is free to enter.
7. Take a Guided Tour
If you’d like to learn more about the Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri, consider taking a guided tour. Tours are offered in several languages and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and art of the church.
8. Enjoy a Concert
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is also a popular venue for concerts. Throughout the year, the church hosts a variety of musical performances, ranging from classical music to jazz.
9. Visit the Gift Shop
The church has a small gift shop, which sells souvenirs and religious items. The shop is open daily and is a great place to pick up a unique memento of your visit.
10. Take a Break in the Garden
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is a great place to relax and take a break from sightseeing. The garden is filled with trees and flowers, and there are several benches where visitors can sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The Church of San Giuseppe dei Neri is one of the most popular attractions in Messina, and there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re looking to admire the architecture or explore the art, this stunning church has something for everyone.