6. High Altar

The triumphal arch of the presbytery, with its refined marble facing, frames the majestic high altar. As well as being visually connected, the two elements are also united by the same stylistic language: in fact, they reflect the Sicilian-derived Baroque taste that was widespread in the Messina area during the 17th century, forming a unified decorative apparatus. Both feature a precious decoration in polychrome marble inlays in light, red, black and ivory tones, which punctuate the surfaces in numerous ornamental panels with figurative and naturalistic motifs. The arch and the altar thus create a true Baroque scenographic setting, made even more striking by the light entering through the window positioned behind the altar. The brightness of the back choir, more intense than the rarefied light of the rectangular hall, accentuates the spiritual and solemn character of the liturgical space. The scenic layout clearly separates the scarsella from the space behind the retrochoir. The high altar, preceded by three steps, develops vertically and consists of the tabernacle and central ciborium, flanked laterally by two doors that allow access to the retrochoir. The architectural layout is very elaborate: the tabernacle and ciborium simulate the appearance of a small marble temple marked by small columns, capitals, cornices and niches. The two doors are decorated with volutes and an octagonal pediment, i.e. a terminal decoration surmounted by a black spherical knob. The series of marble backgrounds inlaid with profiles of fortified cities, together with the rich repertoire of flowers, birds, butterflies and flies, harmonise with the architecture to create a refined ornamental apparatus.