Ispica, new light for the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Last night Ispica experienced an event destined to remain in the collective memory: the official lighting of the new artistic illumination of the facade of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, in the presence of the highest religious and civil authorities.

The temple, an icon of Baroque architecture in South-Eastern Sicily, emerged from the darkness in a new guise, highlighting the architectural details that make it unique.

The solemn ceremony was attended by Mons. Salvatore Rumeo, Don Antonio Forgione, Don Stefano Modica, and the city councilors Pierenzo Muraglie and Carmelo Oddo.

The intervention is not just an aesthetic gesture, but the culmination of a complex administrative process. The work was financed with 100,000 euros obtained in Palermo through an amendment to the 2024 financial maneuver, funds strongly advocated by Honorable Ignazio Abbate, which also include enhancement interventions for Palazzo Bruno and the SS. Annunziata.

“Seeing this facade finally illuminated is a source of deep pride,” declared Hon. Abbate. “Everything started at the end of 2023 with the first inspections together with councilors Muraglie, Oddo, Ignaccolo, Sudano, and Pluchinotta. Today that commitment made in front of the city is being realized.”

Despite the difficulties related to drafting the executive project, the result rewards the tenacity of the promoters. The honorable member highlighted the synergy among the various local actors: “A special thanks goes to the presidents of the Confraternities, Fidelio and Rustico. The work of surveyor Gennaro was essential for the agreement between the Municipality and the Confraternities and for the City Council in approving the budget variation necessary to unlock the funds.”

The lighting of the new light is not only a tribute to the devotion of the people of Ispica, but a strategic choice for tourism revival. “When institutions work in synergy with the Church and the territory,” concluded Abbate, “the results come for the benefit of the community.”

With this “new light,” Ispica reaffirms its role in the circuit of Iblean beauty, offering visitors a suggestive night view that enhances its religious and civil masterpieces.