Historic center of Caltagirone

Italy / Sizilien / Caltagirone /
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The name Caltagirone derives from the Arab term Qalat-Jerun, that means "Castle of the burial grounds" because of the presence of vast necropolises throughout the territory. The first inhabited center rose in the surroundings of a castle during the Greek era.

In 1030, it was conquered by a colony of Ligurians headed by the Byzantine general Giorgio Maniace. In 1090, Count Ruggero D'Altavilla took possession of the suburb and christianized it. Approximately during 1458, a Parliament was assembled and it nominated Giovanni d'Aragona prince of Caltagirone and King of the Reign of Sicily.

The earthquakes of 1542 and 1693 completely destroyed the town, and the new rebuilt center followed the baroque style thanks to the interventions of several architects such as Rosario Gagliardi (1682-1762), Francesco Battaglia (1701-1778) and Natale Bonaiuto (XVIII century).
Between 1622 and 1800, the town was seat of the University deli Studio founded by King Filippo III. Approximately in 1800, the town was risen to episcopal residence.
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caltagirone
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   37°14'13"N   14°30'51"E

Comments

  • Really beatiful town where History and Culture meet all the population and wellcome all the tourists.
This article was last modified 14 years ago