The town of Naro (AG) developed under the rule of the Chiaramonte lords, later becoming property of the state and enjoying moments of great splendour. With a strategic position and fertile land, the vast territory has ancient roots as the Greek necropolis and early Christian catacombs attest. It was settled by the Sicanians, the earliest inhabitants of the island, Normans, Swabians, Spanish and Arabs.
There are traces everywhere of the imposing Arab presence: from the ancient city gate (the only one left of the original 7) to the mosque transformed by Count Ruggero into the old Chiesa Madre. Other signs of the past include the ancient Jewish quarter and medieval Chiaramonte Castle which rises over the city: its tuff rock and irregularly shaped complex has a defensive wall, square tower and imposing keep, while the inner rooms, with barrel-vaulted ceilings, include a drawing room and large open cistern that was also used as a prison.
The main churches of Naro feature many works of art and include the 14th century Chiesa Madre dedicated to Maria Santissima Annunziata; the Church of Santa Caterina, with a crypt, statues and medieval frescoes; the Church of the Holy Saviour with a rich Baroque façade in Spanish style; and the Church of St. Francis, a triumph of the Baroque that distinguishes Naro.
Sicilia Film Commission
Via Emanuele Notarbartolo 9 — 90141 Palermo
Phone: +39 091 7078008; +39 091 7078264; +39 091 7078133; +39 091 7078145
Email: filmcommission@regione.sicilia.it
