The MANIACE CASTLE AND THE BELLOMO MUSEUM
The Middle Ages in Sicily are strictly linked to the arrival of the Normans, culminating with Frederich II from Swabia. Different traces of this time can be found in several buildings, but the monument which best represents the Emperor’s interest for the town, dominates the point of Ortigya, the Maniace Castle. Even if several structures have been modified through the centuries, its elegant simplicity remains, including a beautiful Norman archway and a part of the large hall with its refined columns supporting the cross vaulted ceiling.
Similar architecture can be found in the building of the Bellomo Museum, where the objects and paintings of medieval and modern history are displayed. Alongside canvas’ of unknown Sicilian painters, the Annunciation by Antonello da Messina shows to you how the influence of Renaissance Art, admired in Tuscany, were already present in Sicily at the same time.
