5. NORMAN-HOHENSTAUFEN ITINERARY

The Norman conquest of Sicily began in 1061. After driving out the Arabs in 1086, Siracusa was ruled by Count Ruggero. The Norman's left an indelible mark on popular-religious architecture, rebuilding the facade of the Duomo. The arrival of the Hohenstaufens led by Frederick 11 one hundred thirty-five years later will give rise to the construction of works for the defense of the area in the center of eastern Sicily. The castles were built both for defense and residential purposes and were probably designed by Arab architects. The castle of Augusta bears a certain resemblance to that of Al Andarin in Syria.

SIRACUSA

The Cathedral, the Castello Maniace, Palazzo Bellomo (ground floor), the Churches of San Giovanni Battista and of San Tommaso.

AUGUSTA

The Castle ("Castello").

VENDICARI

The Hohenstaufen Tower ("Torre Sveva").