Saint Catherine Latin Church

The Latin Church of Saint Catherine is located in the al-Jdeideh neighborhood, near the Jasmine Gate in the city of Aleppo. It stands as one of the most prominent architectural and religious landmarks in the city. The church serves as a significant spiritual and cultural center for the Catholic community, blending religious, historical, and artistic heritage.

The church was designed by the Italian architect Mario Gabrieli, who chose the Neo-Gothic style to emphasize both beauty and grandeur in its façade. The exterior is adorned with intricately carved sandstone, featuring pointed arches and stained-glass windows (vitrail) that depict scenes from the life of Saint Catherine, lending the space a unique artistic and spiritual atmosphere. Crowning the church’s main tower is an iron cross, specially imported from the city of Turin, Italy. The tower rises to a height of 24 meters, making it a striking landmark in the neighborhood’s skyline.

The church also serves as the home of the “Peace” Choir, which performs hymns in multiple languages, including Latin and Arabic—reflecting Aleppo’s rich cultural and religious diversity.

During the years of war, the church played a vital humanitarian role by becoming a relief center, offering support and aid to displaced persons and those in need, thus becoming a sanctuary of peace and hope.

In 2019, the church underwent a restoration process that included repairing minor damage sustained during the conflict. A modern sound system was also installed, allowing hymns to be broadcast into the outer courtyard—adding a spiritual and musical dimension that enhances the visitor’s experience and deepens the church’s presence at the heart of the community.