The results of the day of studies on the Chiaramonte complex of S. Spirito in Agrigento: strategic cultural and architectural heritage for the territory.
Introduction to the Study Day
The study day took place on Thursday 13 June 2024 in the former monastery of S. Spirito, Aula Capitolare, courtyard S.Spirito Agrigento: The architectural cultural heritage: strategic resource of the territory – The Chiaramonte complex of S. Spirito in Agrigento: studies and proposals.
Organized to present the educational results of the students of the Architectural Restoration Laboratory in the Architecture and Building Project Studies Course of the Department of Architecture of the University of Palermo based at the University Territorial Center of Agrigento, chaired by prof. arch. Gianfranco Tuzzolino.
The Importance of the Chiaramonte Complex of S. Spirito
The complex of S. Spirito is a monument of exceptional historical-architectural value, a leading work in the wider field of medieval architecture, so-called ‘Chiaramontana’ because it was inspired and desired by the powerful Chiaramonte family and of which many testimonies remain throughout the Sicily and, above all, in the province of Agrigento.
Presentation of Teaching Outcomes and Proposals
The day, moderated by Professor Valeria Scavone, coordinator of the aforementioned Course of Studies, was an opportunity to reflect on the main architectural and stylistic qualities of the complex, on its state of conservation, but also on its potential for use and valorisation, which could contribute to acting as an important driving force for the recovery of the part of the historic center in which it is located.
In which the restoration of the former hospital of S. Giovanni di Dio on Via Atenea is already about to be completed, again by the University of Palermo and whose works will be presented by the engineer. Antonio Sorce of the Technical Office of the University of Palermo.
Interventions and Contributions of Authorities and Experts
Furthermore, in addition to the Superintendence who described the past and ongoing restoration interventions, the Councilor for Culture of the municipality of Agrigento Costantino Ciulla, a representative of the Prefect of Agrigento and Giuseppe Montana for the FEC – Ministry of the Interior, Don Giuseppe Pontillo of the Archdiocese of Agrigento, Giuseppe Parello, director of the A. Salinas Archaeological Museum of Palermo,
The works were presented by the students of the course of studies under the guidance of the owner of the Laboratory, Renata Prescia, with Fabio Zarbo and again Alessia Cilona to present Loredana Lentini’s degree thesis on the former Trachomatosario of Agrigento, built in what it was the monastery’s garden and is now abandoned.
The Role of the University of Palermo in Heritage Recovery
With this initiative, the University of Palermo once again demonstrates its commitment to the territory in which it works and offers young students an opportunity to feel part of the community in which they live, study and in which – it is hoped – they can work thanks to the skills acquired.
The students present: Flavia Crapanzano, Antonio Farruggia, Giovanni Manganello, Sophia Mazza, Paola Pupella, Alba Ettari, Giuseppe Fiorentino, Salvo Indelicato, Giulia Jacona, Federica Marchese Ragona, Maria Mazza, Jlenia Moscatello.
