Born in Poland in 1724, he moved to Rome in the 1750s to study architecture, then came to Catania where he married the daughter of famous architect Francesco Battaglia. Ittar was welcomed by Don Ignazio Paternò Castello, Prince of Biscari, who became his patron. He constructed important works incl...

The architect practised his profession in Catania in the second half of the 18th century, participating in the city's reconstruction after the earthquake of 1693. In addition to the works dedicated to the Benedictine complex, carried out alongside other architects including his uncle, Francesco Ba...

The structure is preceded by three steps, where the base of the altar is placed, which, above the volutes (a decorative spiral-shaped element), houses two white marble female figures representing Faith and Charity. The altar is formed of an exquisite combination of colourful marble – red, yellow...

The unique design of the 18th-century floor by Giovanni Battista Marino consists of eight alternating segments decorated with arabesque motifs. The design converges into a central flower and extends to the chapels....

Central plan is an expression used in architecture to indicate the plans of buildings where each section is organised and built around a central point....

A loggia is an architectural structure that is open on at least one side. It is not always accessible and sometimes only serves as a decoration. However, when used as a portico, it can be walked in and across. It is usually covered, raised and supported by columns and arches....

The street takes its name from one of the many convents that were built there: a residence located in the highest section of the street, the convent of the Crucifer Fathers with the annexed church of San Camillo de Lellis (St. Camillus de Lellis). The monastery was founded by the Bishop Riggio, wh...

The Bersaglieri are soldiers trained to shoot (targets) with rifles. Their fast marching pace, a symbol of courage and activism, and the black feathers on their sloping hat distinguish the soldiers....

The candelabra or candelora of Monsignor Ventimiglia was donated by the Bishop of Catania, Salvatore Ventimiglia, who, having retired to a private life in Palermo, wanted to demonstrate his bond and devotion to the city and people of Catania. On the feast of St. Agatha he sent the candelora; his ca...

Patron saints protect the city from tragic events or catastrophes, but are also the saints that people turn to in difficult situations. The patron saint of Europe is St. Benedict. In Italy, it is St. Francis of Assisi....