Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
hilltop centre with newer developments around Piazza Municipio, it was originally di-
vided into several flights of steps separated by small squares.
These were eventually unified in the 1880s to create the 142-step flight that stands
today. The hand-painted maiolica tiles were a relatively recent addition, only being added
in 1956. It's all very impressive, although by the time you get to the top, you'll probably
be more interested in having a sit-down than admiring the tilework. Fortunately, the huge
views will quickly restore your will to move. The steps, lined with colourful ceramic
shops, are at their finest during Caltagirone's annual celebration, the
Festa di San Giacomo
(Feast of St James) on 24 and 25 July, when the entire staircase is lit by more than 4000
oil lamps.
At the bottom of the staircase,
Piazza Municipio
is overshadowed by a number of grand
buildings, including the
Galleria Luigi Sturzo
. Named after a revered former mayor, Luigi
Sturzo (1871-1959), and housed in Palazzo Senatorio, where once the town senate sat, the
gallery hosts temporary exhibitions and the tourist information desk.
Museo della Ceramica
(Regional Ceramics Museum; 093 35 84 18; Via Roma; adult/reduced €3/2; 9am-6pm)
Down from the
main historic centre, the Museo della Ceramica is the place to learn about the Sicilian
ceramics industry. Exhibits, which include Greek terracotta works, medieval kitchenware
and some excessively elaborate 18th-century maiolica statuettes, chronicle developments
from prehistoric times to the 19th century.
MUSEUM
MUSEUM
Museo d'Arte Contemporanea Caltagirone
( 093 32 10 83; Viale Regina Elena 10; 9.30am-1.30pm Mon, Tue & Thu-Sat, 9am-12.30pm Sun, 4-7pm Tue &
Fri-Sun)
This small museum has a contemporary collection, including works by the
renowned local artist Gianni Ballarò.
Giardino Pubblico
Next to the Museo della Ceramica, the Giardino Pubblico is a lovely place to see out the
late afternoon, perhaps with an ice cream or a glass of something cool at the park bar.
Manicured avenues lead down to a central space where ceramic-tiled benches look onto
an art nouveau pavilion.
Look the other way for views stretching into the distance - on a clear day, as far as Mt
Etna.
GARDENS
