ITS25 MC – City tour Catane

Students started exploring the cultural monuments of Catania, the second largest city in Sicily after Palermo. Teachers prepared the sightseeing tour and each student had to read the information about one chosen historical site and present it to the group. The rainy weather accompanied them the whole time. Students visited monuments such as: Plazza di Duomo, Church of St. Agatha (patroness of the city), Porta Garibaldi, Amfiteatro Romano-Greco.We saw the Elephant Fountain, also known as "Liotru", is one of Catania's most iconic symbols and has a deep connection to the city's history and identity. The fountain features an elephant made of black lava stone, with a obelisk placed on its back. It is a symbol of strength, power, and endurance, qualities that are particularly meaningful, city that has faced numerous volcanic eruptions from Mount Etna over the centuries. Despite the challenges posed by the active volcano, Catania has continuously rebuilt itself, much like the elephant, which is considered a symbol of resilience. The fountain dates back to the 18th century and was designed by the architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini. The obelisk was added later and is dedicated to Saint Agatha, The statue was not just a decorative piece but also a practical marker for measuring the city's distances, as it was located at the center of Catania's old town.

We saw the Roman Amphitheater located beneath Piazza Stesicoro. It is one of the largest Roman era structures in Catania, though much of it lies buried beneath the modern city due to subsequent constructions, including the square itself. The amphitheater was primarily used for gladiatorial games, animal hunts, and other public spectacles, typical of Roman entertainment.Built between the 2nd and 3rd centuries CE, it was an important feature of Catania's urban landscape. It could hold up to 15,000 spectators, a large number for that era. The structure had an elliptical shape and was similar in design to other Roman amphitheaters.The amphitheater was made of local volcanic stone, a material commonly used in the construction of Catania's ancient structures due to the proximity to Mount Etna.

The arena featured a central arena where the combat or performances took place, surrounded by seating for spectators.

Italian students had to look for the information on the internet, choose the most important one and make a summary, then they presented it while visiting the site. This developed their cultural awareness and general knowledge. 
They enjoyed the day, although they walked a lot. However, Catania is really worth seeing.