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Catania ::.
CATANIA Sicily's second city lies between the Ionian sea and the slopes of the Etna. Founded by a Greek colony around 730 BC, it was destroyed many times by earthquakes.Catania is full of interesting sights. The Castello Ursino was built between 1239 and 125 for Frederick II; the upper rooms now house the Museo Civico. In this rich picture gallery there are important works by Beato Angelico, Pietro Novelli and Antonello Saliba. The city's centre is around Piazza Duomo, where the two main streets, Via Etnea and Via Vittorio Emanuele meet.Here stands the symbol of Catania, the Elephant fountain by Vaccarini. The Cathedral is dedicated to S.Agata, the patron saint. The oldest part of the church dates back to 1092.; the interior is home to the tomb of Bellini, of Frederick III of Aragona and of Constance of Aragona. The Badia di Sant'Agata is a Baroque masterpiece; designed by Vaccarini. On Via Etnea, the main street, have a look at the beautiful Collegiate church and at Villa Bellini, the public garden. Don't miss a stroll through Via Crociferi, lined with Baroque churches (San Francesco d'Assisi, S.Giuliano) and Palazzi. Other interesting sights: Palazzo Biscari, one of the most sumptuos public buildings; the Museo Civico Belliniano in the birthplace of the famous composer; the Casa Museo di Giovanni Verga, dedicated to the author; the Roman Theatre in calacreous stone; the lively Pescheria market close to Via Garibaldi; the churches of S.Benedetto and S.Nicoḷ all'Arena (on the floor of the transept there is one of the largest sundials in Europe). |
Catania
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