Discover St Peter’s Church in Taormina, a historic site rich in art, culture and traditions. A hidden gem to visit during your stay.
Among the many historical treasures of Taormina, there is a lesser-known but fascinating place rich in history and spiritual heritage: the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, commonly known as St. Peter’s Church. Located along the scenic Via Pirandello, this small church preserves centuries of history, where traces of Greek, Arab and Christian civilizations intertwine. Visiting it feels like stepping into a timeless place where archaeology, faith and local traditions meet.
One of the oldest churches in Taormina
According to several scholars, St. Peter’s Church may be the oldest Christian church in Taormina. It stands outside the ancient city walls, in an area that once hosted a large Arab necropolis, of which only a few remains survive today. Much of the burial ground was destroyed between 1825 and 1830 during the construction of the road later dedicated to Luigi Pirandello.
The English historian and archaeologist Edward Augustus Freeman, who carried out excavations in the surrounding area, suggested that the church was built on the ruins of a Greek temple, possibly dating back to the Byzantine period.
Because the church stood in the countryside surrounded by vineyards cultivated since the time of ancient Tauromenion, historians believe that the original temple may have been dedicated to Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, known to the Romans as Bacchus.
Archaeological excavations and discoveries
Between 1732 and 1742, important excavations were conducted by Biagio de Spuches, Duke of Santo Stefano. During these works, several architectural remains were uncovered, including a remarkable marble head of Zeus (Jupiter), suggesting the presence of an ancient Greek sanctuary.
Another important discovery occurred in 1763, when the Dutch archaeologist Jacopus Philippus D’Orville found inside the church the famous “Table of the Gymnasiarchs.” This inscribed stele contained the names of the magistrates who annually directed the gymnasium of ancient Tauromenion. The stone had been reused as part of one of the church’s pillars and was later preserved in the Capuchin convent.
Architectural features of the church
The church façade, dating back to the 18th century, features a simple portal with lintel and jambs made of Taormina stone. Above the entrance there is a rounded arch with a prominent keystone.
Above the portal stands a window framed with Syracuse stone, whose decorative elements include elegant carved scrolls.
The top of the façade follows the double-sloped baroque style, reminiscent of the pediment of a classical temple, and is crowned by a small iron cross.
To the left of the entrance there is a protruding structure that houses the ancient crypt, today used as the sacristy. This section is built using exposed stone and is accessible through a pointed arch doorway decorated with black volcanic pumice stone. Inside the crypt there are remains of frescoes depicting Saints Peter and Paul.
The interior: three naves and medieval frescoes
The interior of the church, which some scholars date to the mid-14th century, is divided into three naves separated by pointed Gothic arches. Despite the modest size of the building, the architectural layout creates a surprising sense of spaciousness.
The main altar is particularly distinctive. It stands on a base of pink Taormina marble steps and features five small columns supporting four decorative arches adorned with trilobed motifs.
Behind the altar lies a small apse decorated with 15th-century frescoes depicting the twelve Apostles. During the 18th century these paintings were covered by later decorations, but over time humidity caused the newer layer to crack, revealing the original artworks beneath.
A church used as a burial place
For many centuries St. Peter’s Church also served as a burial site. The floor once contained numerous tombs.
At the center of the church there is a large tomb closed by a slab bearing a Latin inscription dated 1714. The text compares human life to a fragile boat tossed by stormy waves, hoping to reach the safe harbor of peace guided by Saint Peter.
Even in modern times the church continued to host important burials. Here rest Senator Giuseppe Caronia, a renowned pediatrician and scientist, and his wife.
Religious traditions and celebrations
Inside the church there is a 16th-century statue of Saint Peter, made of papier-mâché and decorated with gold. The statue is placed on a wooden processional platform known as a “vara.”
Every year, on June 29, the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul, the statue of Saint Peter is carried in procession to the Church of San Pancrazio. It remains there until July 9, the feast of the patron saint of Taormina. On that day, the two most important saints of the city are celebrated together with a solemn procession organized by the Fishermen’s Guild, since Saint Peter is traditionally considered the protector of fishermen.
A peaceful place to discover
Today St. Peter’s Church is one of the most authentic and quiet corners of Taormina. Away from the busy tourist streets of the historic center, it offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to discover the deeper historical roots of the city.
Visiting hours
The church is generally open:
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Morning: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
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Afternoon: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Mass times may vary during the year.
Where to Stay in Taormina
After visiting St Peter’s Church and exploring the historical treasures of Taormina, choosing the right place to stay can make your experience even more memorable.
B&B Teatro Greco 39 offers a comfortable and elegant stay in the heart of Taormina, just a short walk from the city’s most famous attractions, restaurants and breathtaking viewpoints.
Booking your stay here allows you to experience the authentic atmosphere of Taormina while enjoying a welcoming environment and the best available rates.
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