Begun in 1601 by Antonuzzo Gagini, the building – which housed the Courts of Justice – was continued by his son Giandomenico and then by his grandson Francesco, who added further decorations.
The Captain’s Court is considered one of the most significant public buildings of the Renaissance still standing in Sicily.
During the reorganization of the city’s road system in the second half of the 19th century, the building underwent modifications.
One side was truncated to widen Via Vittorio Emanuele, while the other was lengthened by demolishing the bell tower of the Church of the Crucifix.
The Calatino architect Giambattista Nicastro carried out these interventions, which also affected the interiors.
Currently owned by the Municipality, the building serves as a venue for exhibitions and cultural events.
