Ex chiesa di S. Agostino
Museum | Taormina | Sicily | Italy
The former Chiesa di Sant'Agostino in Taormina, Sicily, is a historic building that was originally built as a church and monastery of the Augustinian Hermits in the 15th century. Today, it houses the Biblioteca Comunale Sant'Agostino, which was established in 1933 in the premises of the former church and monastery.
Architecture and History:
The church and monastery were built in the late Gothic style and are known for their simple elegance. A distinctive feature is the bell tower, which has the shape of a small, crenellated fortress. Inside the former church, some original artworks and architectural elements are still preserved, providing insight into the religious art and architecture of the 15th century.
Library and Cultural significance:
The library has a collection of over 22,000 volumes, including more than 2,000 works focusing on the history and culture of Sicily. Particularly valuable are the collection of books from the 17th to 19th centuries, as well as paintings and other artworks displayed in the Sala del Fondo Antico.
Events and Exhibitions:
In addition to the library, cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts are regularly organized in the premises of the former church. An example is the exhibition of paintings and sculptures by artist Patrizia Materia that took place in 2022.
Overall, the former Chiesa di Sant'Agostino serves as a significant cultural center in Taormina, connecting history, art, and literature, and providing both locals and visitors with a valuable contribution to the cultural life of the city.
