Dreaming of poisonous spiders might sound strange. But it is how the story of the Madonna dei Rimedi began. Today we are standing before this Baroque church, a sanctuary with a rich history. It is located on Piazza Indipendenza in Palermo.
Let’s step back to 1064. Norman troops camped outside the city. They were trying to conquer Saracen Palermo. But poisonous spiders attacked their camp. A Norman warrior had a dream. The Virgin Mary led him to a fire. This fire killed the spiders. The Normans vowed to build a church if they succeeded.
After their victory in 1072, Roger I of Sicily kept that promise. He erected a small church. He named it Santa Maria dei Rimedi. This translates to Saint Mary of the Remedies.
Centuries passed. In 1610, the small church was given to the Carmelite order. With support from Viceroy Juan Fernandez Pacheco, they built a larger church and convent. The construction finished in 1625. However, another story tells a different version. The viceroy planned to remove the Carmelites. But a vision of the Virgin Mary stopped him.
The church and convent faced challenges. In 1866, they were suppressed and used as barracks. Thankfully, Cardinal Ernesto Ruffini reassigned the church to the Carmelites in 1949. Over time, artworks were added to the sanctuary. The earthquake of 2002 revealed structural weaknesses. Repairs have been ongoing ever since.
Mariano Smiriglio designed the church. Statues of Santa Teresa of Avila and St Joseph with young Jesus flank the central window. To the right stands the former monastery.
Inside, you would find artistic treasures. Rosalia Novelli painted the Transverberation of Santa Teresa. In the sacristy, there is a St Bartholemew by Spagnoletto. Pietro Novelli created an altarpiece of the Holy Family. He also painted another Holy Family. Plus, there once was his Return of the Holy Family from Egypt. It is now in Palazzo Abatellis. Olivio Sozzi’s painting for the chapel of St John of the Cross is now at the church of the Carmine a san Giuseppe.
The Madonna dei Rimedi has undergone many changes. It has witnessed battles, visions, and restorations. It stands as a testament to faith and perseverance.
The church is not just a historical site. It is still active. You can attend Mass here. The Carmelite order continues to serve the community. The sanctuary remains a place of worship and reflection. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and history around you. Consider the stories of faith and resilience that echo within these walls. The Madonna dei Rimedi is more than just a church. It is a living testament to Palermo’s past and present.