Porta Uzeda (Uzeda Gate), Catania

The Uzeda Gate, a striking symbol of Catania, embodies the city’s rich Baroque heritage and resilience. Built in 1695 under the direction of the Duke of Camastra, the gate was commissioned to honor Juan Francisco Pacheco Téllez-Girón, the Duke of Uzeda and viceroy of Sicily (1689–1696), for his pivotal role in rebuilding the city after the catastrophic earthquake of 1693. It was completed in 1696, seamlessly linking Via Etnea to the bustling port.

The gate serves as a connection between the two sections of the old Clerks' Seminary, now housing the Diocesan Museum and Chierici Palace. Its façade is a masterpiece of Catania Baroque architecture, characterized by a harmonious interplay of black lava stone and white marble, mirroring the style of the adjacent Chierici Palace. Nestled within the sixteenth-century city walls originally built under Spanish King Charles V, the Uzeda Gate represents a "new" defensive addition constructed following the 1669 lava flow and the 1693 earthquake.

Uzeda Gate’s location is as iconic as its design. It bridges Cathedral Square (Piazza Duomo) with Dusmet Street (Via Dusmet), offering breathtaking views from its connecting bridge. Visitors can admire the Baroque skyline of Catania and the majestic Mount Etna to the north, while the arches of the Marina and the shimmering sea extend to the south.

The gate’s history is intertwined with the governance of the Spanish Viceroys in Sicily (1412–1830). Though dedicated to the Duke of Uzeda as a tribute to his reconstruction efforts, local chronicles from the 18th century suggest that his strict rule was not universally appreciated. Nevertheless, the Uzeda Gate remains a testament to his enduring legacy and a key architectural jewel in the heart of Catania.