Castel Sant’Angelo in Licata
testimony to Sicily’s cultural crossroads

Castel Sant’Angelo is among the most important monuments of the city of Licata, which you can discover with Relais Villa Giuliana as your reference point during your stay.

Castel Sant’Angelo is a beautiful example of military architecture in Sicilian Baroque style, among the most representative of the 18th century. Commissioned by the commander of the Kingdom of Sicily, Hernando Petigno, construction began in 1615 but was completed only in 1640. Its architectural style and its position on the top of a hill make it one of the charming landmarks of the city of Licata.
The area where Castel Sant’Angelo stands is rich in historical elements and represents a treasure chest of archaeological finds, ancient monuments, necropolises and natural paths created by the peoples who crossed Sicily and lived in these places. Where Castel Sant’Angelo stands today, there had already been a watchtower.
Although Castel Sant’Angelo was built as a defensive structure, it was never the scene of military episodes and has remained intact to this day. During the 19th and 20th centuries, it played an important role for the Italian Air Force, hosting one of its garrisons until 1965.