![University Palace, Catania](/img/gd_attr/43859.jpg)
University Palace, Catania
The University Palace (Palazzo Centrale dell'Università) is a monumental Baroque structure in University Square (Piazza Universitaria) in the heart of Catania. Since its construction, the palace has served as the main administrative hub for the University of Catania, the oldest university in Sicily and among the 15 oldest in Italy. Across the square, it faces the San Giuliano Palace, another university building.
The University of Catania was established on October 19, 1434, by Alfonso V of Aragon, also known as Alfonso the Magnanimous, with a papal bull from Pope Eugene IV confirming its constitution in 1444. The university initially operated near the Cathedral of Sant’Agata in Cathedral Square. After the devastating earthquake of 1693, which obliterated much of the city, the university relocated to the current site, previously occupied by the San Marco Hospital.
Rebuilt in 1696, the palace showcases the work of renowned Baroque architects, including Francesco Battaglia, his son Antonino Battaglia, and Giovanni Battista Vaccarini. Completed by 1760, the palace underwent further restoration following subsequent earthquakes in 1785 and 1818, with notable contributions by Antonino Battaglia and engineer Mario Di Stefano in 1879.
The façade is a blend of grandeur and intricate design, featuring a central portal flanked by marble columns and adorned with the coats of arms of the Paternò Castello and Asmundo families. Behind the façade lies a grand cloistered courtyard, its pavement an elegant pattern of black and white stones, reminiscent of Vaccarini's designs in other notable Catanian buildings.
With its rich history and stunning architecture, the University Palace stands as a testament to the resilience and scholarly tradition of Catania, drawing visitors to admire its beauty and learn about its storied past.
The University of Catania was established on October 19, 1434, by Alfonso V of Aragon, also known as Alfonso the Magnanimous, with a papal bull from Pope Eugene IV confirming its constitution in 1444. The university initially operated near the Cathedral of Sant’Agata in Cathedral Square. After the devastating earthquake of 1693, which obliterated much of the city, the university relocated to the current site, previously occupied by the San Marco Hospital.
Rebuilt in 1696, the palace showcases the work of renowned Baroque architects, including Francesco Battaglia, his son Antonino Battaglia, and Giovanni Battista Vaccarini. Completed by 1760, the palace underwent further restoration following subsequent earthquakes in 1785 and 1818, with notable contributions by Antonino Battaglia and engineer Mario Di Stefano in 1879.
The façade is a blend of grandeur and intricate design, featuring a central portal flanked by marble columns and adorned with the coats of arms of the Paternò Castello and Asmundo families. Behind the façade lies a grand cloistered courtyard, its pavement an elegant pattern of black and white stones, reminiscent of Vaccarini's designs in other notable Catanian buildings.
With its rich history and stunning architecture, the University Palace stands as a testament to the resilience and scholarly tradition of Catania, drawing visitors to admire its beauty and learn about its storied past.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Catania. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
University Palace on Map
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Sight Name: University Palace
Sight Location: Catania, Italy (See walking tours in Catania)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Catania, Italy (See walking tours in Catania)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Catania, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Catania
Creating your own self-guided walk in Catania is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Churches Walking Tour
Just as many other Italian destinations, the Sicilian city of Catania is full of churches, especially in the historic center, where the presence of religious sites is particularly high! A good number of local churches date back centuries, and as such represent marvelous pieces of architecture, adding much character to the area. It is also commonplace to find inside most of them, be it a duomo,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Catania Introduction Walking Tour
The old Sicilian word "katane" is often translated as "harsh ground" or "sharp stones." Black lava from Mount Etna has swamped the area many times. Other disasters include earthquakes, invasions and wars.
The original village of Katane was occupied by Greek settlers in the eighth century BC. During the first Punic War, Catania became a Roman city. The Vandals... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
The original village of Katane was occupied by Greek settlers in the eighth century BC. During the first Punic War, Catania became a Roman city. The Vandals... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles