The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, also known as La Matrice, is located in the heart of the picturesque town of Geraci Siculo. This historic building overlooks the main square in a graceful dialogue with the 18th-century architecture of the College of Mary that stands opposite. The Matrix, whose construction began in the 14th century, during the reign of Francis I Ventimiglia, è an architectural jewel of the diocese of Cefalù.
The medieval charm of the church is expressed in its ogive main portal, characterized by three archivolts. Unfortunately, time damage has eroded the heraldic coat of arms placed on the intermediate lintel, making it indecipherable. It underwentì various remodeling due to earthquakes between 1818 and 1819, and the reconstruction of the bell tower took place in 1844, giving it a showy brightly colored spire.
The interior of the church has an impressive three-aisle structure, adorned with side chapels and topped by pointed arches on massive pillars. The history of the building è fascinating, with a construction site that lasted for centuries. It was not until 1495 that it was finally consecrated, becoming the parish seat.
Here, visitors can admire numerous valuable works of art, including the Madonna of Mercede, a Gaginian sculpture from the early decades of the 16th century. Another artistic treasure è is the baptismal font from the first half of the 16th century, considered one of the most intriguing examples in the Madonite territory because of its iconographic complexity.
The baptismal font from the first half of the 16th century is considered one of the most intriguing examples in the Madonite territory because of its iconographic complexity.
Over the centuries, La Matrice has undergone various renovation works, including the addition of chapels, enlargement of the aisles, and a new roof with imposing barrel vaults. These works were started in 1626 and lasted about thirty years, supervised by Antonio Gambaro, a renowned master from Castelbuono.
In the crypt of the church è exhibited is the so-called “treasure,” a collection of sacred gold and silverware from various local churches. These works were examined with great care by Professor Maria Concetta Di Natale. Among the most interesting works is a 14th-century reliquary of Tuscan origin dedicated to St. Bartholomew.