Palermo church reopens after 40 years with Adrian Ghenie altarpieces

After being closed for four decades, the Church of the Madonna della Mazza in Palermo has reopened, thanks to a contemporary art initiative overseen by Alessandra Borghese in partnership with the Archdiocese of Palermo and Father Giuseppe Bucaro. Romanian artist Adrian Ghenie has produced two altarpieces titled "Crocifissione" and "Martirio di Padre Pino Puglisi," which explore themes of martyrdom and make references to Father Pino Puglisi and Islamic State captives. "Crocifissione" portrays a modern Christ in a branded tracksuit, while "Martirio" illustrates Puglisi's confrontation with his killer. Additionally, the project led to the creation of the Fondazione Ghenie Chapels aimed at safeguarding artistic heritage and fostering cultural dialogue. The church was partially open in 2018 for Manifesta and features works by Filippo Paladino and others.