Built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II, this massive castle has a turbulent history, closely linked to the events of the Sicilian Vespers, the seat of parliament and later as the residence of the Aragonese rulers. Today it houses the Municipal Museum of Catania, a treasure trove that brings together the collections of the Biscari and the Benedictines.
The strategic position of Castello Ursino, originally built on the edge of the harbor, illustrates the mutability of nature and the power of Etna. An eruption in 1669 caused the coastline to retreat, so that the castle now stands a few hundred meters from the sea. The view into the former moat is particularly impressive, where the solidified lava from that eruption can be seen - a silent witness to the forces that were at work here.
When you enter the castle, you immediately feel the atmosphere of times gone by. The thick walls that once provided protection now surround an oasis of peace and culture in the heart of the bustling city of Catania. The tour of the museum is a journey through history, from the Aragonese rulers to the geological upheavals that have shaped the face of Catania.
Today, the Castello Ursino presents itself as a massive yet welcoming monument. Its resistance to the mighty Mount Etna and its ability to channel and survive the lava flows around it are testament to the resilience and adaptability of human architecture. It is one of the few buildings in Catania to survive the devastating eruption of 1669, a symbol of indomitable spirit that now serves as the cultural heart of the city.