Church of Sant'Antonio Abate in Pedara
The Church of Sant'Antonio Abate in Pedara is the second most important place of worship in the Etna village.
It is known that there was a building of worship dedicated to Sant'Antonio Abate as early as the 15th century, probably in a different position from the current one but still not far from it. The current building was built in 1680, destroyed by the earthquake of 1693 and rebuilt later.
The church stands on a spectacular lava stone staircase which gives great majesty to the entire structure.
The simple rectangular façade is characterized by the chromatic contrast between the white of the plaster and the architectural scores made of lava stone ashlars that divide the surface into three parts. In the center there is the main trabeated portal surmounted by a broken tympanum, a circular window made of lava stone ashlars, and a niche which houses the statue of the titular saint. A second door, smaller in size, opens on the right side of the structure. On the left side stands the bell tower.
The interior has an asymmetrical plan divided into two naves. This asymmetry arose following the expansion works which took place in 1946. Following the addition of the second wing, the right side lost some decorative elements which are still present on the left side.
Among the works kept in the church worthy of note they are: the ancient organ; the canvas of Saints Cosma and Damiano, much venerated in Pedara; and the ancient simulacrum of Sant'Antonio Abate.
