AUGUSTA
Augusta
is an important Italian commercial port concerned primarily with
oil refineries and the production of “green” (lead-free)
petrol. This industrial conglomeration has incurred considerable
damage be it as a result of the 1693 earthquake, the Allied bombing
of 1943, or, indeed following major seismic tremors as recently
as 1990.
The
town was founded by Frederick II on account of its strategic position
with regard to defending the Bay of Augusta: hence the overpowering
defensive quality of the Swabian castle, despite its neglected state
of repair. The city became the most important Siracusan military
outpost during the Second World War.
Augusta
claims as impressing cultural and tourist attractions as historical
ones. The entrance to the citadel is by the Spanish Gate, flanked
by two imposing bastions. The main axis of the old town is Corso
Principe Umberto, the commercial thoroughfare which runs north to
south.
The
tour throughout Augusta can begin in the Swabian Castle, an imposing
square building unfortunately reduced to a poor condition hence
not accessible. It probably comprised a square tower at each of
its four corners and other two polygonal towers in the remaining
sides, one of these being only visible. The castle served longtime
as a prison. The Forte Avalos, the Forte Garcia and the Forte Vittoria,
all built during the 16th century, are also worth-seeing.
The
religious buildings include the Baroque Chiesa delle Anime Sante
and the 1600’s Chiesa Madre dedicated to Our lady of the Annunciation.
The
tour includes the archaeological site of Megara Hyblaea (see MEGARA
HYBLAEA) and the sea resort of Brucoli; this is a charming fishing
village combining naturalistic attractions, such as the porto-canale
formed by the estuary of the Porcaria creek, and historical ones
represented by a 1600’s fortification designed to defend the
local harbour area and the Castello consisting of a 1400’s
square tower.
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