Description of the attraction
Library and Pinakothek Zelantea attracts attention by its name, which is similar to the name of the mythical muse. This is exactly what - Zelantea - is the name of the extensive library and art gallery in Acireale, one of the city's cultural attractions. The monumental building in which they are housed is located on Via Sangiuliano. It was built in the 19th century by the engineer Mariano Panebianco, one of the greatest minds of his time in the history of Sicily.
However, the history of the creation of the library goes back even further and dates back to 1716. Today it is considered one of the richest libraries in southern Italy - over 250 thousand volumes of books are kept here, as well as numerous manuscripts, brochures, magazines and documents.
The art gallery, in turn, was founded in 1851. The initiator of its creation was Paolo Leonardo Pennizi, who donated his collection of paintings, sketches and sculptures to the Academy of Arts. Later Paolo Leonardo II followed Pennizi's example and donated a number of works of art. This was the beginning of the tradition that all the artists of Acireale respected sacredly - to transfer part of their works to the gallery for the benefit of society. Today, it contains numerous works of undoubted historical and artistic value and dating from the second half of the 16th century - the first half of the 20th century. Among the presented artists are Giacinto Platania, who is considered the father of the local school of painting, Matteo Ragonis, Pietro Paolo Vasta, Emanuele Grasso, Sara Spina and others. There are also works by world-renowned masters - Dürer, Morelli, Van Dyck.
Also noteworthy is the section of sculptures, especially the composition depicting the shepherdess Achi and the nymph Galatea in love with him - the heroes of the myth about the founding of Acireale. This composition was made in 1846 for an exhibition in Palermo.
