After our delicious lunch, all of it grilled by the gentleman pictured standing by the smoking grill above, we continued on our way.

On the same piazza, Al Tentacolo was another inexpensive place to grab some food and drinks, but they only served fish and seafood.  We would eat there the following day.

Our next stop was going to be the Oratorio del Santissimo Rosario in San Domenico, which can be found on Via Valverde, #3.  From the outside, one would think that there was simply a normal space behind the doors, but do not be fooled!  Once you purchase your ticket from the person at the desk (your ticket is good for this oratory, plus another one a bit further down the road), you will enter a magnificent space that alone would be worth making the journey to Palermo to see!

The oratory was founded in 1574, but the rich stucco decorations were added in the early 18th century, by Giacomo Serpotta.

The most precious artwork in the oratory is considered to be the main altarpiece that depicts the Madonna of the Rosary, and is the work of Anthony Van Dyck, who painted the work during the plague outbreak of 1624.

The second oratory that is included in the ticket is the Oratorio del Santissimo Rosario in Santa Cita.  The entrance is set back from the street, and up a short flight of steps, to a portal that leads to more stairs.  Go up, until you reach the courtyard!

As in the Oratorio del Santissimo Rosario in San Domenico, the stucco work here was also done by Giacomo Serpotta.  He began his beautiful decorations in 1685, and continued working until 1708, when he was given his final payment for the last touches to his work.  I do not like to repeat myself, but this is something that should not be missed!  It is beautiful!

 

Next up: We wind up our third day in Palermo, as we finish our visit to the oratorio, and then, head to the waterfront!

 

Note: This blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations that may appear.  If you have enjoyed this post, please, check out our archives for more posts from Palermo, as well as other Italian destinations.  Grazie!