Palazzo San Giuliano (San Giuliano Palace), Catania
The San Giuliano Palace (Palazzo San Giuliano), located in the bustling University Square (Piazza Universitaria) at the heart of Catania, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a monument to the city's resilience and historical depth. Originally commissioned by the Marquise of San Giuliano from the House of Paternò following the devastating 1693 Sicily earthquake, the palace was designed by renowned architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini and completed in 1738.
Over the centuries, this iconic structure has served various roles, including a private residence, hospital, bank, theater, and hotel. Since the 1980s, it has been the administrative hub of the University of Catania, standing opposite the University Building (Palazzo dell'Università), which houses the university's rectorate, a library, and a museum.
The San Giuliano Palace is celebrated for its striking façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings and ornate balconies that exude the grandeur of the Baroque era. The rooftop balustrade, a later addition from the 1930s, complements the historic aesthetic. Inside, the courtyard features a characteristic double staircase leading to the piano nobile, a testament to the architectural elegance of its time.
The entrance portal is embellished with two coats of arms: the Paternò Castello family crest on the left and the Asmundos crest on the right, marking its lineage of aristocratic ownership.
Today, San Giuliano Palace is more than a historical landmark; it is a vibrant cultural icon. Nestled in the lively University Square, surrounded by bustling cafés and shops, it invites visitors to immerse themselves in Catania's unique blend of history, art, and local charm. Whether you're drawn by its architectural splendor or its storied past, a visit to San Giuliano Palace promises an unforgettable glimpse into the spirit of Sicily.
Over the centuries, this iconic structure has served various roles, including a private residence, hospital, bank, theater, and hotel. Since the 1980s, it has been the administrative hub of the University of Catania, standing opposite the University Building (Palazzo dell'Università), which houses the university's rectorate, a library, and a museum.
The San Giuliano Palace is celebrated for its striking façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings and ornate balconies that exude the grandeur of the Baroque era. The rooftop balustrade, a later addition from the 1930s, complements the historic aesthetic. Inside, the courtyard features a characteristic double staircase leading to the piano nobile, a testament to the architectural elegance of its time.
The entrance portal is embellished with two coats of arms: the Paternò Castello family crest on the left and the Asmundos crest on the right, marking its lineage of aristocratic ownership.
Today, San Giuliano Palace is more than a historical landmark; it is a vibrant cultural icon. Nestled in the lively University Square, surrounded by bustling cafés and shops, it invites visitors to immerse themselves in Catania's unique blend of history, art, and local charm. Whether you're drawn by its architectural splendor or its storied past, a visit to San Giuliano Palace promises an unforgettable glimpse into the spirit of Sicily.
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.
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Palazzo San Giuliano (San Giuliano Palace) on Map
Sight Name: Palazzo San Giuliano (San Giuliano 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