Built by Federico II of Swabia in the 13th century, Ursino Castle was a royal residence until the 18th century. In later years it was used as a prison (prisoners’ scratchings can still be seen on the first floor of the building). Its name probably derives from Consul Flavio Arsino, governor of the island at the end of the 3rd century C.E.
The castle structure follows the usual canons of Federician architecture with a geometric plan bounded by a double square perimeter and a large open courtyard within. The imposing pumice stone walls of the original building are still standing, as are four circular towers and a long room in the eastern sector of the fortress. Today it houses the civic museum of Catania which has sections of Medieval, Renaissance and modern archaeology.
Sicilia Film Commission
Via Emanuele Notarbartolo 9 — 90141 Palermo
Phone: +39 091 7078008; +39 091 7078264; +39 091 7078133; +39 091 7078145
Email: filmcommission@regione.sicilia.it
