San Cataldo: Exterior showing blind arches, bulge domes and Arab-style merlons

San Cataldo is a notable example of Norman architecture. The church is annexed to that of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio [La Martorana]. Founded around 1160 by admiral Majone di Bari, in the 18th century the church was used as a post office. In the 19th century it was restored and brought back to a Medieval form. It has a rectangular plan with blind arches, partially occupied by windows. The ceiling has three characteristics red, bulge domes (cubole) and Arab-style merlons. The interior has a nave with two aisles. The naked brick walls are faced by spolia columns with Byzantine style arcades. The pavement is the original one and has a splendid mosaic decoration.