Martorana is one of two cathedrals of the diocese of Pian degli Albanesi (Italo-Albanian Catholic Church) in Palermo. The official name of the Church located on Piazza Bellini, San Nicola del Greci, as it is popularly known as Santa Maria del Ammiraglio. Next to it are the churches of San Cataldo, Santa Caterina and San Giuseppe dei Teatini.

Domenico was built in the 12th century, the widely circulated at that time everywhere in Sicily to the Arab-Norman style – nowadays the unique Byzantine frescoes of the era, some of the oldest on the island. A feature of the Church is that it harmoniously combines the features of the Byzantine, Greek and Islamic heritage.

The Church was originally dedicated to Bagrodia, as evidenced by its ancient name of Santa Maria del Ammiraglio. It happened, according to historical sources, in the mid-12th century. Adjoined the temple Palace of George of Antioch, who was later included in the monastic complex of Martorana, but, unfortunately, was destroyed during the Second World war. During the three centuries of Santa Maria del Ammiraglio belonged to a Greek parish. Most likely, in those years was built the bell tower of the Church.

In 1194, next to the Church was founded a women's Benedictine monastery, called the Martorana on behalf of its founders – Geoffroy and Eloisa Martorana. In the first half of the 15th century Santa Maria del Ammiraglio was officially included in the composition of the monastery - the Church had a second name. In the 17th century by the architect Andrea Palma was attached to the North end of the Church a Baroque facade, which now adorns the Piazza Bellini. Then on the ruins of the apse was erected a chapel, also in Baroque style.

In the second half of the 19th century, the convent of Martorana was abolished, and the Church became property of the Italian government. In 1870-1873, it underwent a serious restoration work, during which part of the Baroque elements was removed. And in 1935, Mussolini gave the Church the Albanian community in Palermo, which made it the second Cathedral of his diocese. After the Second World war Martorana received the official name of San Nicolas del Greci, as the first Cathedral with the same name was destroyed during the bombing of the town and its parish was transferred to Martorano. However, this name has not been strengthened among the inhabitants of Palermo.

Today Martorana is one of the most popular medieval tourist attractions and the most popular Church among newlyweds. Its interior can be seen in the film "the Talented Mr. Ripley." And the name of the Church are artificial marzipan fruits, which the nuns used to do at Easter - frutt Martorana.