Visiting this palace is truly enchanting. Currently the seat of the University, it has been modified many times over the years. You can visit for free, but to discover the fascinating history and some special rooms, a highly recommended paid guided tour is necessary.
The Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena, also known as Monastero dei Benedettini, is an important Baroque building characterized by its marvelous monumental staircase that tends towards Neoclassicism. It is a symbol of the wealth of the most powerful religious order in the city. In this review, I will focus on the marble entrance. The staircase, designed by Girolamo Palazzotto, dates back to the 18th century. It is divided into two blocks of marble stairs that lead to the entrance of the rooms.
The artists of the bas-reliefs, Giuseppe and Gioacchino Gianforma, were inspired by the lives of saints related to the Benedictine order and the city of Catania. Looking at the composition, you can see Saint Benedict of Nursia, the founder of the order, Saint Nicholas, the martyrdom of Saint Agatha (the patron saint of Catania), the martyrdom of Saint Placid, and the baptism of Christ.
Don't miss the guided tour of the Monastero dei Benedettini in Catania with Nicola. It was an extraordinary experience. Nicola was not only an expert guide but also extremely friendly and able to convey his knowledge in a clear and engaging way. His explanations were so fascinating that he managed to capture the attention of even the youngest visitors, making the visit an educational and fun experience for the whole family. I highly recommend this guided tour to anyone who wants to discover the beauty and history of the Monastero dei Benedettini in Catania. Thanks to Nicola for making this experience so memorable!
The building, which currently houses some humanities faculties of the University of Catania, was once the Monastery of the Benedictines. It has been renovated and expanded several times, and its appearance and shape date back to the 18th century, after the devastating earthquake of 1693. Majestic and equipped with two large internal cloisters, it was adapted to its current functions in the 1970s by the architect G. De Carlo. In the basement, you can admire the remains of two Roman domus from the imperial period, with many mosaic-floored rooms. Guided tours of about an hour and a half are available with knowledgeable and courteous staff. A beautiful experience.
Highly recommended guided tour, a few euros for a fascinating immersion in the history and life of the building. A beautiful tour of over an hour and twenty minutes to be done in the late morning, also bookable online.
Discover the hidden treasures of Monastero dei Benedettini!
