Gangi Vecchio Abbey in Gangi
The Abbey of Gangi Vecchio in Gangi is an ancient monastic complex of notable artistic and historical interest. It was built in 1363 as the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria di Gangi Vecchio on a fortified settlement from the Roman era which evolved into a farmhouse in the Byzantine and medieval times. In 1413 the monastery was granted the title of abbey. For at least two centuries, until 1654, the year in which the monks were transferred to Castelbuono, the abbey was the most important Benedictine monastic reality in central-northern Sicily. In the 16th century the structure was renovated: the monastery and the internal cloister (no longer existing) were reconfigured, a new facade was created with an ashlar portal and several frescoes by the painter Pietro de Bellio. Abandoned by the monks in the 17th century, it later became a private residence.
Of particular interest is the stone sculpture that stands above the portal which depicts the double-headed eagle with imperial crown and a shield on the chest from which the heraldic emblem. This coat of arms commemorates the overnight stay of Emperor Charles V, which took place on the night between 15th and 16th October 1535 on the occasion of his crossing of Sicily, following the victory in Tunis.
