The church was built between 1598 and 1622 by the Filippini Fathers, who settled in Palermo in 1594, based on a design by Antonio Muttone. The facade, completed between 1655 and 1690, is characterized by the presence of two twin bell towers, a profusion of slightly projecting columns, portals and statues which, following the example of contemporary Roman works, transformed the church facade into a magnificent and sumptuous Baroque document.

A wide staircase, enclosed by an iron railing, leads to the portals, executed around 1690, with finely carved wooden doors. The statues on the second tier depict: Saint Rosalia and Saint Philip Neri, on the right bell tower, Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Ignatius, on the left. The building is topped by an elegant dome completed in 1732 and covered with lead sheets. The interior, with three naves, is spacious and solemn, and has a Latin cross plan.

The naves are separated by columns and completed by side chapels; the vast transept leads to the rectangular chapel. The decoration, carried out during the 18th century, includes important paintings and sculptures. Of great value is the floor, which is composed of an elegant composition of polychrome marbles.

The vault was decorated by Antonio Manno in 1790 with scenes from the Holy Scriptures; the neoclassical compartments were prepared by Venanzio Marvuglia, who collaborated in the final arrangement of the church around 1772. Furthermore, of particular interest are: a statue of the Immaculate Conception, made by Alessandro Bagnasco in 1873; a canvas of Saint Rosalia, executed by Filippo Randazzo; two choir lofts with an organ that flank the tribune decorated with marble panels; the 19th century high altar in marble with bronze stones and friezes, flanked by two marble statues by Ignazio Marabitti depicting Saint Peter and Saint Paul, etc.