Ursino Castle

Ursino Castle is a 13th-century fortress in Catania, now home to the city’s Civic Museum. Frederick II of Swabia ordered its construction between 1239 and 1250, when it stood on a promontory by the sea. Today, its rooms bring together archaeological finds, medieval objects and art, including works from the Biscari and Benedictine collections. Look for the original towers and walls, then explore the courtyard, where ancient architectural remains sit among the castle’s stonework. From the walls, you can also see Mount Etna.

A fortress reshaped by the coast

Frederick II of Swabia ordered Ursino Castle’s construction between 1239 and 1250. It was built on a promontory overlooking the sea, as part of Sicily’s coastal defences and as a sign of royal authority. Its position is difficult to picture from the castle today: the shoreline once lay much closer.

The 1669 eruption of Mount Etna sent lava around the fortress and changed the coastline, leaving the castle inland. It later served as a royal residence and a prison, among other uses. Drawings made by prisoners can still be seen on the walls.

Inside the Civic Museum

The castle houses Catania’s Civic Museum, with collections linked to the Prince of Biscari, Baron Zappalà-Asmundo and the Benedictine Fathers. The displays cover archaeology, the medieval period, the Renaissance and modern art. Paintings, sculptures and other historical objects trace aspects of Catania’s past and artistic life.

Among the works of particular interest are paintings by Bernardino Niger, Minniti, Stomer and Novelli, as well as the Madonna with Child by Antonello da Saliba. The collection also includes works by Rapisardi, Travi and Bernazzo. Take time to move through the different sections rather than focusing on a single period.