The Church of Santo Stefano, situated along Corso Vittorio Emanuele in Geraci Siculo, is one of the most striking religious buildings in the village, instantly recognisable by the spectacular majolica spire dating from 1623 that rises above the bell tower. It stands outside the ancient city walls, near the historic Porta della Buchiria, bearing witness to the expansion of the town over time.

The church, home to the brotherhood of the same name, is first documented as early as 1576, although its current appearance dates back to the late 18th century, when it was completely renovated, taking on a distinctive oval plan with chapels arranged along the main axes. This layout is rather rare in the local context and forms part of the wider Sicilian tradition of centrally planned churches, which developed particularly after the earthquake of 1693.

The project is likely linked to the influence of the architect Gandolfo Felice Bongiorno, who was active in the area during the same period. The construction work involved local craftsmen, including Mariano and Gaetano Castello of Gangi and Felice Coco, whilst the carved stone portal, created in 1792 by Giuseppe Augusta, was decorated with symbols relating to the saint’s martyrdom.

Inside, the church houses works of great artistic and devotional value. Among these, the wooden statue of Saint Stephen, dating from the late 15th century, stands out, alongside the painting of the Vision of Saint Stephen, painted in 1609 by Giuseppe Salerno. Also of considerable interest is a painting on copper depicting the Madonna delle Grazie, dating from before 1694.

As a whole, the church represents a fascinating example of late Baroque Sicilian religious architecture, where scenographic elements, spatial innovation and devotional tradition blend in a harmonious balance.