George of Antioch, the founder, was a Greek-Syrian admiral who served King Roger II of Sicily.
The church was originally built as a private chapel for the admiral's family.
It is officially an Italo-Albanian Catholic cathedral, following the Byzantine Rite.
The mosaic of Roger II being crowned by Christ is one of the few surviving depictions of the Norman king.
The church's nickname 'La Martorana' comes from a nearby convent founded by Eloisa Martorana in 1194.
The original structure was square in plan with a central dome, following the Greek-cross layout.
The western Baroque facade was added in the 18th century, significantly altering the original exterior appearance.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Arab-Norman Palermo circuit.
The Church of Saint Mary dell'Ammiraglio, also known as La Martorana, is a 12th-century structure renowned for its preserved Byzantine mosaics. Founded in 1143 by George of Antioch, the church reflects an architectural fusion of Byzantine, Arab-Norman, and Baroque styles. The central dome features a distinct mosaic of Christ Pantocrator surrounded by archangels. Subsequent centuries added ornate Baroque elements, including frescoes by Olivio Sozzi and Guglielmo Borremans. The building serves as the co-cathedral for the Italo-Albanian Catholic Church in Sicily. It maintains a rite that preserves the Greek language and Byzantine traditions within the Catholic liturgy. The floor features complex geometric marble intarsia work characteristic of Norman-era Sicilian craftsmanship.
From the center of the nave looking upward to capture the Christ Pantocrator dome mosaic.
Bring a pair of binoculars to examine the intricate details of the high-domed mosaics.
Visit during a liturgical celebration to experience the authentic Byzantine rite in Greek.
Look for the distinct 'martorana' marzipan fruit historically produced by the adjacent nuns.
Do not attempt to enter while a religious service is in progress unless participating, and avoid wearing tank tops or shorts.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is strictly observed during liturgical services.
