History
CALATABIANO
From fortress to town
The name is traditionally linked to Arabic and to a castle. The municipal guide dates documentary evidence of the settlement to the twelfth century. Its feudal history includes the de Parisio, Ruggero di Lauria, Brancaleone Auria, Cruyllas, Marullo and Gravina families. The 1693 earthquake helped bring about the abandonment of the hilltop settlement and the growth of the town below.
Check opening times, accessibility and entry arrangements with the municipality, parish or property managers before visiting. Castle access and panoramic lift operation are not confirmed here.
Sources & privacy
- Città Metropolitana di Catania · Calatabiano
- Comune · Guida storico-artistica (copia consultabile)
- Comune · Chiesa del SS. Crocifisso
- Diocesi di Acireale · Chiese di Calatabiano
- Parco Ecclesiale · Castello di Calatabiano
- Parco Ecclesiale · Il cammino di San Filippo
- Castello di San Marco · Storia della dimora
- Regione Siciliana · Gestione del castello medievale, 2026