Angelo Italia

Angelo Italia (Licata, 1628 - Palermo, 1700) was an Italian Jesuit, urban planner, and architect, prominent during the Baroque period in Sicily in the second half of the 17th century. Although his background and training are not entirely clear, he likely began as a carver or stonemason in his hometown before entering the Society of Jesus in 1671. He mainly worked for the order, influenced by Guarino Guarini after his stay in Messina in 1685. He resided in Palermo, where he undertook projects and works for the Casa de terza probazione and the church of San Francesco Saverio, and also worked on the reconstruction of Avola and Noto after the earthquake of 1693. His work includes experiments with central plans, highlighting the use of the hexagonal form in buildings such as the Crucifix Chapel in the Monreale Cathedral and the church of San Francesco Saverio in Palermo.