Nicosia, Sicily Italy
Roman Catholic
The church, originally Byzantine, was built between the 7th and 8th centuries, the oldest church in NIcolsia. The small church is built into the stone castle of Nicosia. It was given the name "Petit" to distinguish is from the larger church, S. Nicolò de Plano. The church has been rebuilt several times. A Mass is held here on December 5, the eve of St. Nicholas Feast Day. Following the Mass, the priest tosses coins to the children in witness to St. Nicholas' legendary generosity. A band accompanies the whole event, including a procession to the Piazza Garibaldi where the entertainment continues.