Sicily's capital is packed with architectural riches, and for many its cathedral, the Cattedrale Metropolitana della Santa Vergine Maria Assunta, is at or near the top of the list. Dating back to 1185, was enlarged and revamped up until the 18th century, leaving it with a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and neoclassical styles. Notable elements include an ornate 15th-century portal, an also 15th-century Catalan-Gothic portico, and a beautiful 12th-century apse. The whitewashed interior, by contrast, is relatively plain, though there are some lovely statues, chapels, and crypts, plus the treasury of religious art and artifacts is quite impressive.

It's one of Tripatini member Shiv's 8 Gems among Europe's Lesser Known Cathedrals and Churches.

Andrea Schaffer