Church of San Giuliano in Erice
The Church of San Giuliano di Erice, hidden among the narrow stone streets of the medieval village, rises above the road.
It was built, according to tradition, at the behest of Count Ruggero d'Altavilla to thank the Saint, martyr in 254 AD, who had helped him expel the Arabs from the city . San Giuliano, known as the liberator, is in fact depicted with the appearance of a warrior armed with a sword and falcon. However, the hypothesis that the construction of the church dates back to the first centuries of Christianity seems more accredited. Rebuilt and enlarged at the beginning of the 17th century, today it is in the Gothic style.
The gabled façade has a Renaissance portal and niche. Next to it rises the late Baroque bell tower with pagota roof built later.
The interior, with three naves, is adorned with Baroque stuccos.
Inside the church there are also works of the art of wax plastics Sicilian.
Of considerable value are the Statuary Groups of the Eighteenth Century Mysteries kept inside. These sculptural groups made of canvas, wood and glue, represent scenes from the Passion of Christ . The groups, carried on the shoulders, are carried in procession on Good Friday along the streets of the medieval town.
