From December 21, 2024, to April 30, 2025, Casa Vaccarini in Catania will host the photographic exhibition “Between earth and sky: Le Ciminiere of Catania among urban development, history, economy, and culture.” Curated by photographer Emanuela Minaldi, this event explores the disused industrial area of Le Ciminiere, a silent witness to the city’s economic and social past.
The exhibition, supported by notable institutions such as the Sicilian Region, the University of Catania, and the National Institute of Architecture, is a culturally significant project. Alongside contemporary photographs capturing the decayed charm of warehouses, crumbling walls, and chimneys, the exhibition features historical archives, cadastral maps, and urban plans, highlighting the area’s prominence during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This period saw Catania emerge as the “Milan of the South,” driven by its sulfur mining and trade industries.
Emanuela Minaldi’s photographs depict the haunting beauty of these abandoned spaces, prompting reflection on their history and potential future. The exhibition concludes with a redevelopment proposal by architect Giacomo Leone, envisioning a revitalized multifunctional center for the area.
This event is not only a celebration of industrial memory, but also the foundation for an ambitious project: the creation of a permanent interpretive center dedicated to Catania’s industrial past. This vision aims to enrich the city’s cultural and touristic landscape by transforming Le Ciminiere into a symbol of urban regeneration.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into Catania’s history. Share your thoughts and opinions in the comment form below!
