We began our second day in Sciacca by heading back up to the historical center. We were joined on the stairway by a family of kittens, resting in the warm autumn sun.
Once up in the historical center, we passed a window display of art by Alessandro Venezia, poking fun at or, should I say, being truthful about the qualities of some world leaders.
Even though we peeked into the entrance of the former Collegio dei Gesuiti the day before, as we walked past now, we decided to step into the courtyard, and admire the architecture a bit closer. The building was designed by the Jesuit architect, Natale Masuccio, and as we said in an earlier post, dates from 1613.
The Biblioteca Comunale Aurelio Cassar occupies the former Oratory of the Congregation of the Immaculate, on the north side of the upper atrium. It holds approximately 25,000 volumes, mostly books of religious content, as well as historical documents, letters, and other items of historical importance, going back to the 14th century.
As we continued on our way, we passed the house where the Italian political activist, Ignazio Scaturro, was born in 1882.
The Chiesa del Collegio dates from the early 17th century. This was the church affiliated with the Collegio dei Gesuiti, and was run by the Jesuits.
The former Church of San Cataldo stands in what was once the Jewish district of the city. Today, the building is a residence.
The Chiesa of San Nicolò La Latina is the oldest church in the city of Sciacca, being founded between 1100 and 1136. The church is set in the Muslim district of the city, known as Robato, and it takes its appearance, a mixture of Arab and Norman elements, from the fact that many Arab workers took part in its construction.
Next up: We visit the ruins of an ancient castle!
<em>Note: This blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations that may appear. If you have enjoyed this post, please, check out our archives for more posts from Sciacca, as well as other Italian destinations. Grazie!</em>