Encyclopedia of Southern Italy: Ak – Al
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Ak – Al
Akragas: Ancient name for Agrigento (See which).
Akrai: See Acrae.
Akudunniad: the Oscan name of an ancient Samnite town. It is identified in some sources with Aquilonia.
al-Aghlab ibn Muhammad ibn al-Aghlab>: (fl. 2nd part of the 9th century). Saracen usurper who seized power in Sicily for a short time in AD 878.
Alabon (Alabus): (mod. Cantaro). An ancient river and town located to the north of Syracuse. The river emptied into the Sicilian Sea at Megara, between Xyphonia and Thapsus.
Alabus, River: See Alabon.
Alabus (Alabon) River (modern Cantaro): An ancient river of Sicily which emptied into the Sicilian Sea at Megara, between Xyphonia and Thapsus.
Alaca, River: A river of Calabria (length: 21 km). Rising from the Lago di Lacina in the Serra d’Assi (1,048 m), it flows eastward into the Gulf of Squillace near San Sostene (CZ).
Alaesa (Halesa, Halaesa): An ancient town situated on the N coast of Sicily between Calacta and Cephaloedium. It was founded by Arconides of Herbita in 403 BC. According to tradition, in the vicinity of the town was a foundation whose waters were said to “dance” to the sound of a flute. Mod. Pittineo.
Alaesus (Halesus) River: A river in ancient Sicily which emptied into the Tyrrhenian Sea at Alaesa.
Alagna (Span. Alaña), Jose Saverio: (b. Jan. 11, 1707, Palermo; d. 1767, Havana, Cuba). Jesuit missionary. Entering the Jesuit Order in 1722, he served as a teacher of mathematical sciences and languages (Greek and Engllish) at the Jesuit college at Belen. Among his student was the noted historian Fr. Alegre.
In 1743, Alagna participated in the unsuccessful experition led by Fr. Jose Maria Monaco to colonize Florida. The diary which he kept during this expedition, which includes several astute scientific comments and maps of the Florida Keys, is an exceptional historical resource. Alagna returned to Cuba where he remained for the remainder of his life as a teacher of classical languages.
Alagna (or Alagno), Lucrezia d’: (b. c1430, Amalfi; d. 1478, Rome). Noblewoman. It is believed that she became the mistress of King Alfonso I “the Magnanimous” of Naples (d.1458) during the last years of his life. Lucrezia was described as a young woman of great beauty, born into a noble, but impoverished, family. Despite her denial to any involvement with the king, it seemed to have been something of an open secret. After Alfonso’s death, she left Naples and lived for a time in Dalmatia. After spending some time at Ravenna, she eventually moved to Rome where she died.
Alagona: A noble family of Sicily which rose to attain much power and wealth from the 14th to 17th centuries. Apparently of Aragonese origins, they played an important role in the conflicts in Sicily during the reign of Queen Maria and Martin I “the Younger.”
Alagona, Artale di (1): (d. 1389, Catania). Nobleman. Serving as baiulo (guardian) of Queen Maria of Sicily, he became one of the four vicar-governors early in the queen’s reign. Realizing the danger to Maria if she remained in Sicily, Alagona helped the Queen to escape to Aragon and to marry Martin of Aragon. Despite this, he spent the remainder of his life attempting to prevent Martin from seizing power in Sicily. He was the uncle of Artale di Alagona (2).
Alagona, Artale di (2): (fl. late 14th century). Nobleman. The nephew of Artale di Alagona (1), he seized control, in 1392, of the city of Catania in resistance to King Martin I and Queen Maria. When Martin finally captured the city in 1394, Alagona fled to Milan.
Alagona, Pietro: (b. 1549, Syacuse; d. Oct. 19, 1624, Rome). Jesuit scholar. His principal work was Enchiridian, seu manuale confessariorum. He also wrote compendiums of the works of Martin Aspelcueta (uncle of St. Francis Xavier), of the Summa of St. Thomas Aquinas, and of canon law.
Alaimo (sometimes Alaymo or Alcaimo), Marcantonio: (b. 1590, Regalbuto [EN]; d. 1662). Physician. Having established himself at Palermo, he earned the reputation as the greatest physician of his time in Sicily. Among his many works was Diadecticon (1637), an account of various medicinal substances.
Alaimo di Lentini: (d. 1287). Sicilian nobleman and patriot. A supporter of the Guelf party, he was banished by King Manfred of Sicily. After Manfred’s defeat and death at the hands of Charles I of Anjou, Alaimo returned and was placed in high office. In 1282, when the revolt of the Sicilian Vespers broke out, Alaimo turned on the Angevins and organized the defense of the city of Messina for the Aragonese. In reward, the new Aragonese government of Sicily appointed him as a judge (1283-84). Soon afterwards he fell under suspicion of conspiring to turn control of Sicily over to the Papacy. King James ordered his arrest and execution by drowning.
Alangi, Accurzio (Span. Acurio Alongo): (b. Sicily; fl. early 18th Century). Vicar and ecclesiastical judge. In 1695, he arrived in Puerto Rico, having received approval to come to the New World by the Church. Not, however, having received similar permission from the Spanish king, he was in violation of royal law regarding the restriction of Sicilians and other non-Castilians from immigrating to the Americas. In 1712, Alangi moved to the mainland, settling in the Valley of Amilpas, Mexico. In 1719, he was appointed as vicar and ecclesiastical judge for that region by Archbishop Jose de Lanciego y Eguilaz. In 1737, he finally received royal dispensation and naturalization.
Alanno >(PE): A commune in the province of Pescara.
Area: 32.51 km². Alt. 307 m. CAP: 65020. Tel. Pref.: 085. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 42°17’47″04N/Long 13°58’19″20E. Population Information: 3,667 (2007e); 3,742 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alannesi.
Alardo: See Erard de Valéry.
Alaric: (Alaricus, Athalaric): (b. (full entry)
Alasa: Etruscan goddess of love and the underworld. She was usually depicted as naked.
Alba (Sicily): See Allava.
Alba Adriatica (TE): A commune in the province of Teramo.
Area: 9.50 km². Alt. 5 m. CAP: 64011. Tel. Pref.: 0861. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 42°49’41″88 N/Long 13°54’54″00 E. Population Information: 11,549 (2007e); 10,389 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Albensi.
Location & Setting: Located at the mouth of the river Vibrata. Part of Unione Comuni Città-Territorio Val Vibrata.
Alba Fucens: An ancient city in the Abruzzo near modern Albe. (full entry)
Albamonte, Guglielmo: (b. Palermo; fl. early 16th century). Man-at-Arms. He was one of the 13 Italian knights who fought an equal number of French knights at the contest known as the Disfida di Barletta (Feb 13, 1503).
Albanella (SA): A commune in the province of Salerno. Area: 39.84 km². Alt. 205 m. CAP: 84044. Tel. Pref.: 0828. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°28’47″64N/Long 15°7’1″56E. Population Information: 6,343 (2007e); 6,317 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Albanellesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Zona del Calore Salernitano. Part of Regione Agraria n. 7 – Medio Sele.
Albanese, Enrico: (b. 1834, Palermo; d. 1889, Palermo). Surgeon. Professor of clinical surgery at the University of Palermo, he was one of the first physicians in Italy to make use of antiseptics. Albanese participated in the campaigns of 1860, 1866, and 1867, and was the physician who treated Garibaldi’s at the battle of the Aspromonte. He was the author of Notizie di chirurgia practica (1869).
Albanese, Giacomo: (b. July 11, 1890, Geraci Siculo [PA]; d. June 8, 1947, at Sao Paolo, Brazil). Mathematician and physicist. He taught geography and algebra at the University of Catania, Palermo, and Pisa.
Albanese, Licia: (b. July 22, 1913, Bari). Soprano. A student of Baldassare Tedeschi, she won a national singing contest held by the Italian government in 1935. She made her operatic debut in Parma, in the role of Cio-Cio-San in Madama Butterfly, and repeated that role when she debuted as Violetta in La Traviata. Coming to the United States, she joined the New York Metropolitan Opera. She became an American citizen in 1945. In 1974, she became director of The Licia Albanese-Puccini Foundation. On October 5, 1995, President Clinton presented her with the National Medal of Honor for the Arts. In 2000, she received the prestigious cultural Handel Medallion from New York City.
Albanese, Manfredi: (b. 1867, Palermo; d. 1912, Pavia). Pharmacologist. He served as a professor at the University of Pavia, and was noted for important research on various chemical bases including xanthine and morphine.
Albanesi, Carlo: (b. Oct. 22, 1856 or 1858, Naples; d. Sept 21, 1926, London). Pianist and composer. He was the son and student of Luigi Albanesi. In 1893, he became a professor at the Royal Academy of Music in London. He composed 6 piano sonatas, a string quartet, trio, songs, and several other works.
Albanesi, Luigi: (b. Mar. 3, 1821, Rome; d. Dec. 4, 1897, Naples). Pianist and composer. The father and teacher of Carlo Albanesi, he wrote several piano pieces, church music, and an oratorio Le Sette Parole di Gesu Cristo.
Albanians: See Arbëresh.
Albanian Uniate Church: A Christian denomination centered in Sicily and the Southern Italian mainland. Its members consist of descendants of Orthodox Albanians who fled to Italy to escape the Ottoman Turks in the 15th Century.
Albano, Marcello: (b. Naples; fl. 1601-1616). Composer.
Albano di Lucania >(PZ): A commune in the province of Potenza.
Area: 55.27 km². Alt. 899 m. CAP: 85010. Tel. Pref.: 0971. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°35’8″16N/Long 16°2’13″20E. Population Information: 1,550 (2007e); 1,612 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Albanesi.
Location & Setting: Located 35 km from Potenza, it is situated on a mountain of the Lucanian Dolomites. Part of Comunità Montana Alto Basento.
The principal religious monument is the 13th Century church of S. Maria Assunta. It contains several 13th and 14th Century frescoes, and a 17th Century painting of the Madonna del Rosario by Pietrafesa.
Alberada (or Aubrey) of Buonalbergo: (b. c1033; d. July 1122)). The daughter of Lord Girard of Buonalbergo, she became the first wife of Robert Guiscard in 1051 or 1052, bringing with her a dowry of 200 knights. Although she was divorced by him because of “consanguinity” (i.e. close blood relationship), her tomb was still placed near his in the Abbey of Holy Trinity at Venosa.
Albergo dei poveri> (“poor house”): A traditional institution common in southern Italy and Sicily for centuries. The albergo dei poveri was more than just a shelter and kitchen, but also provided employment and training for the poor.
Alberi, Torrente: A waterway (length: 10 km) in Sicily, located in the province of Palermo. Rising on the Cozzo Salifizi (795 m), it flows into the river Imera Meridionale.
Alberico Da Barbiano: (Alberico il Grande): (b. (full entry)
Alberico il Grande: See Alberico Da Barbiano.
Alberico of Montecassino (1): (b. 1008; d. 1088). Benedictine monk. He resided at the monastery of Montecassino from 1057 to 1086, under the abbot Desiderius. He has been credited by some as the creator of the manual ars dictaminis. In 1086, he was created a cardinal (SS. Quarto Coronati).
Alberico of Montecassino (2): (b. 1101, Settefrate, Campania; d. after 1146). Monk. Becoming a monk in 1115, he and the Deacon Pietro wrote (1127) an account of a visionary journey through hell, purgatory, and heaven, guided by St.Peter and two angels. This work predates the similar, far more famous, Divine Comedy of Dante, by two centuries.
Alberobello (BA): A commune in the province of Bari.
Area: 40.34 km². Alt. 428 m. CAP: 70011. Tel. Pref.: 080. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°47’12″84N/Long 17°14’16″80E. Population: 10,971 (2007e); 10,996 (2006e); 10,859 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alberobellesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 6 – Murge di Castellana.
Alberona (FG): A commune in the province of Foggia.
Area: 49.30 km². Alt. 732 m. CAP: 71031. Tel. Pref.: 0881. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 41°26’1″32N/Long 15°7’26″04E. Population Information: 1,066 (2007e); 1,093 (2006e); (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alberonesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Monti Dauni Settentrionali.
Culture & Religion: Patron Saint(s): San Giovanni Battista.
Alberti, Adamo: (b. 1809, Cremona; d. 1885, Naples). Actor. A famous comic and character actor, he spent much of his career at the Teatro dei Fiorentini at Naples. In 1878, he published his autobiography Quarant’ anni di storia dei Teatro dei Fiorentini.
Alberto of Montecorvino, St.: (d. 1127). Ecclesiastic. Of Norman birth, he accompanied his father to Montecorvino Pugliano [SA], where he eventually became bishop. He is credited with being a miracle-worker. Despite suffering from blindness, Albert was said to have visions. As Alberto aged and his blindness worsened, he was forced to rely on his coadjutor, Crescentius. An ambitious man, Crescentius wanted Alberto to to name him as successor. Alberto refused and was subjected to increased levels of abuse. Despite the torment, Alberto never complained and eventually died without succumbing to Crescentius’s demands. Feast Day: Apr. 5.
Alberto of Trapani, St.: (b. Trapani; d. c1307). Monk and hermit. Having entered the Carmelite Order, he was ordained and sent to Messina. After a career as a missionary-preacher and miracle-worker, he entered a monastic hermitage in the mountains near Messina. There he remained until his death. Alberto is best-known for converting many of the Jews in and around Messina to Christianity. His cult was approved by Pope Sixtus IV in 1476. Feast Day: Aug. 7.
Albertolli, Il Cavaliere Gioconda: (b. 1742; d. 1840). Architect, designer. Among his most notable works are the interiors of the Palazzo Reale in Naples and the Villa of Maria Theresa at Monza.
Albi >(CZ): A commune in the province of Catanzaro.
Area: 28.86 km². Alt. 710 m. CAP: 88055. Tel. Pref.: 0961. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 39°1’33″60N/Long 16°35’49″92E. Population Information: 1,062 (2006e); 1,105 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Albesi.
Frazioni/Localita: : Buturo, San Giovanni d’Albi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana della Presila Catanzarese. Part of Regione Agraria n. 3 – Sila Piccola Meridionale. Part of Parco Nazionale della Sila.
Albidona (CS): A commune in the province of Cosenza. Population: 1,671 (2006e). Area: 63.71km². Alt. 810 m. CAP: 87070. Tel. Pref.: 0981. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 39°55’24″96N/Long 16°28’15″60E. Population Information: 1,484 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Albidonesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Alto Jonio. Part of Regione Agraria n. 15 – Colline Litoranee di Amendolara.
Albina, St.: (d. AD 250). Martyr. A young Christian girl, she was executed at Formiae, near Naples, during the persecution of Decius. Little else is known about her. Feast Day: Dec. 16.
Albina, Giuseppe: (b. c1550, at Palermo; d. 1611). Painter, sculptor, architect. He lived and worked his entire career in his native city.
Albino, Giovanni (Lat: Joannes Albinus): (b. Naples; fl. late 15th Century). Statesman and historian. He was a counselor on military and civil affairs to King Ferdinand (Ferrante) II of Naples (r.1495-1496). He also wrote a history of his contemporary times.
Albinus (or Albus), Spurius Postumius: (fl. 4th Century BC). Roman politician and military leader. Consul in 344 and 321 BC. In 321, he lead a Roman army against the Samnites but was defeated in the battle of the Caudine Forks. Forced to surrender, his army was humiliated by being forced to march under a yolk. On the advice of Albinus himself, the Roman Senate refused to ratify the terms of his surrender. It was further resolved that Albinus and all of those had accepted the surrender should be turned over the Samnites. To the credit of the latter, the Samnites refused to accept the prisoners.
Alboin: (d. AD 574, Verona). King of the Lombards. After destroying the Gepids, he invaded northern Italy carving a kingdom for the Lombards out of territory taken from the Byzantines. His career was cut short by an assassination carried out by his wife and her lover.
Alburno (anc. Alburnus mons): A limestone ridge of the southern Apennines situated between the rivers Tanagro (anc. Tanager) and Calore (anc. Calor). In ancient times it was within the confines of Lucania; today it is in the Campanian province of Salerno. The massif has a number of karstic phenomena, mostly created by the many springs found here. The best-known of these caves are the Grotto di Pertosa and the Grotta di Castelcivita. The principal peak is M. Panormo (alt. 1,742 m) whose slopes are mostly covered by woods.
Alburnus mons: See Alburno.
Alburnus Portus: A port located near ancient Paestum. It was situated at the mouth of the river Silarus (mode. Sele).
Alcadinus (Ital. Alcadino): (b. Syracuse; fl. early 13th Century). Physician to the Holy Roman Emperors Henry VI and Frederick II.
Alcala (Parafan de Rivero), Duke of: (d. 1571). Viceroy of Naples under King Philip II of Spain and Naples. He succeeded the Duke of Alva, noted for his excessively stern rule. Alacala, in contrast, exercised a mild approach and quickly won the hearts of the population. He was a strong opponant of the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition at Naples. Through Alacla’s efforts, King Philip was convinced to issue a decree banning the Inquisition from Naples in perpetuity. During Alacala’s term as viceroy he successfully repealed Turkish attacks, outbreaks of plague, and the ravages of famine. He adorned Naples with many fine building projects during the 12 years of his term.
Alcamo>(TP): A commune in the province of Trapani, on the west coast of Sicily, 24 miles SW of Palermo.
Area: 130.76 km². Alt. 258 m. CAP: 91011. Tel. Pref.: 0924. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 37°59’57″84N/Long 12°57’26″64E.
Population Information: 43,890 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alcamesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 2 – Colline litorale di Erice.
It was originally founded in AD 828 atop Monte Bonifato (2,713 ft) by the Saracens and named for their leader Al-Kamuk. In 1233 the Saracen population was driven out by the Emperor Frederick II. The present settlement was established at the foot of the mountain. Alcamo’s distinctive Eastern flavor is due, in large part, to its abundant Saracen-Norman remains. It had a population in 1856 of 15,500.
Alcamo, Ciullo d’: See Vincenzo Alcamo.
Alcamo, Vincenzo (Ciullo) d’: (fl. late 12th Century). A Sicilian poet from Alcamo. A contemporary of Emperor Frederick II, he was one of Sicily’s first song-writers and he is often considered the first poet of the Sicilian School.
Alcantara, Gola di: A large, deep gorge cut into a hillside by the river Alcantara, near the town of Gaggi (CT). It measures about 20 meters in depth and 3 meters in width.
Alcantara, River: > (anc. Acesines ): A river (length: 48 km) in E Sicily (provinces of Catania and Messina), on which Naxos, the first Greek city in Sicily was founded. (full entry)
Alcara li Fusi (ME): A commune in the province of Messina.
Area: 62.32km². Alt. 400 m. CAP: 98070. Tel. Pref.: 0941. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 38°1’22″80N/Long 14°42’6″12 E. Population Information: 2,308 (2006e); 2,473 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alcaresi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 2 – Nebrodi nord-orientali.
Alcibiades: (b. 450 BC; d. 404 BC). (full entry)
Alcimus: See Alkimos.
Alcmaeon of Croton: >: (b. c535 BC, Croton). (full entry)
Alcmena, The: A painting said to have been the most famous picture in the ancient world. Painted by Zeuxis, this now-lost wonder was located in the temple of Heracles in Acragas/Agrigentum.
Alcuri: A surname found in Sicily. It is of Saracen origin, deriving from the Arabic al-kurah (=town, country).
Aldemar “the Wise”, St.: (b. 1080?, Capua). Ecclesiastic. After studying at Montecassino, he was chosen to become the abbot of a new convent at Capua by Princess Aloara. There he became famous for his wisdom and miracle-working. Finding himself caught in a dispute between Aloara and the abbot of Montecassino, Aldemar resigned from his post and resettled in Boiana (CB). While there he escaped an assassination attempt at the hands of one of his companions. He fled into the Abruzzi where he founded a monastery at Bocchignano and several dependent houses.
Alderighi, Dante: (b. July 7, 1898, Taranto), Pianist and composer. Having studied piano from Giovanni S. Gambati and composition from G. Francesco Malipiero, he composed a symphony, an overture, a piano concerto, a piano trio, and several other works.
Aldimari, Biagio: See Biagio Altomare.
Aldingh, Henry: The man who established the first printing press in Sicily in 1473.
Aldisio, Salvatore: (b. Dec. 29, 1890, Gela; d. (full entry)
Aleandro, Girolamo: (b. Feb. 13, 1480, Motta di Livenza, near Venice; d. Feb. 1, 1542, Brindisi). Ecclesiastic. Cardinal and Archbishop of Brindisi (1524-1541). He was appointed a Cardinal-Priest in 1538 (in pectore, 1536), and was strongly opposed to reformation in the Church. While with the French king, Francis I, at the battle of Pavia (Feb 24, 1525), he was taken prisoner by the Spanish. He wrote a Greek lexicon and grammar, and a Latin dictionary (Lexicon Graeco-Latinum (1512)).
Alleandro was the first cardinal to be appointed (Dec. 22, 1536) in pectore, a form of secret appointment which was created by Pope Paul III. This was presumably done because an open appointment at that time would have endangered his life. He was openly pronounced a cardinal on December 22, 1536.
Aleatico: Name of a wine grape and of the red dessert wine made from it. Now produced throughout southern and central Italy, it is native to Puglia.
Alecce, Pasquale: (b. 1888, Motta San Giovanni [RC]; d. Mar. 20, 1955, Rome). Industrialist. He was one of the best known of the founders of the Istituto Farmacoterapico Italiano (Rome), one of Europe’s most important and modern centers of pharmaceutical research and production. He was awarded the honor of Cavaliere del Lavoro.
Alènto, River (1): A river (length: 35 km) of the Abruzzo in the provinces of Chieti and Pescara. Rising as the torrent Capo d’Acquq, on the N slope of the Maielletta at Passo di Lanciano (1,338 m), it takes the name of the Alènto at a point about 100 m in elevation, near the Sanctuary of Madonna della Mazza. Flowing to the NE, it empties into the Adriatic Sea at a point N of Francavilla al Mare. Its principal tributaries are the Rio Fontechiaro and the Torrente Valige.
Alènto (anc. Heles) , River (2): A small torrential river (length: 36 km) of the Cilento in the southern part of the province of Salerno, Campania. It rises on Monte Corne (895 m) and flows first to the W and then to the S before emptying into the Tyrrhenian Sea at Marina di Ascea, at a point to the W of Castellammare de Velia, near the site of ancient Velia. During its course it receives the waters of the river Palistro and the torrente Il Fiumicello.
Aleramici: The surname of a noble family of medieval Sicily. Originally of northern Italian origins, the family became closely associated with the Norman dynasty. King Roger II was related to them through his mother, Adelaide.
Alesi, Giuseppe d’: A Sicilian revolutionary assassinated in 1647.
Alessandri (or d’Alessandro), Alessandro (Lat. Alexander ab Alexandro): (b. c1460, Naples; d. 1523). Writer and jurist. He was a student of Francesco Filelfo (1398-1481) at Rome, where he became developed into a humanist. Primarily interested in the law, he authored several legal works including Dies Geniales (or Genialium dierum) (1522). Based on the Attic Nights of Aulus Gellius, this work attempted to separate the original meaning and language of the Twelve Tables of Roman Law from the additions added in medieval times.
Alessandri (or d’Alessandro), Antonio: (b. c1420, Naples; d. Oct. 26, 1498 or 1499). Jurist. A noted lawyer, he became a professor at the University of Naples and occasionally served as a royal agent on diplomatic missions. He wrote several commentaries, as well as works on Neapolitan law and a treatise on inheritance when there is no will.
Alessandri, Vincenzo: (d. 1657). Navigator. An Italian Knight of Malta. He had the misfortune of being captured and enslaved.
Alessandria del Carretto >(CS): A commune in the province of Cosenza. Population: 654 (2006e).
Area: 39.20 km². Alt. 1,000 m. CAP: 87070. Tel. Pref.: 0981. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 39°57’32″76N/Long 16°22’49″08E. Population Information: 745 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alessandrini.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Alto Jonio. Part of Regione Agraria n. 10 – Colline di Oriolo. Part of Parco Nazionale del Pollino.
Alessandria: della Rocca >(AG): A commune in the province of Agrigento. (full entry)
Alessandro: Bishop of Capua (rAD 500-516)
Alessano >(LE): A commune in the province of Lecce.
Area: 28.48 km². Alt.140 m. CAP: 73031. Tel. Pref.: 0833. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 39°53’22″56N/Long 18°19’54″48E. Population Information: 6,615 (2006e); 6,556 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alessanesi.
Alessi, Giuseppe (1): (fl, 18th century). Artist. His best known work is the façade of the Sicilian church of Santissima Annunziata in Avola [SR].
Alessi, Giuseppe (2): (b. 1905, Caltanissetta). Politician. A member of the Christian Democratic Party, he served as the first President of the region of Sicily, from Apr. 1947 to Jan. 1949.
Alessio (called Marchis): (b. in 1700, at Naples; d. c1740, Rome). Painter. Best-known for his landscapes, he imitated Tempesta in style.
Aletium: (mod. Alezio [LE]). A Messapian/Salentinian town in ancient Apulia. It was situated between Uxentum and Neretum, to the NW of the Iapygium promontory. Archaeological evidence shows that it enjoyed a prosperous economic life, reaching a peak in the 4th Century BC. It benefited from the close proximity of Kallipolis. Under the Romans, it enjoyed the status of a municipium.
Alex (Halex) River: A small river in ancient Bruttium. Emptying into the sea at Peripolium, it formed the boundary between the territory of Rhegium and of Locri Epizephyrii.
Alexander I: (Alexander Molossus): (b. (full entry)
Alexander the Great: (b. 356 BC; d. 323 BC). King of Macedonia. Conqueror of the Persian Empire. He was the son and heir of Philip of Macedon and his first wife Olympias, and was the brother-in-law of King Alexander I of Epirus. After completing his conquests, Alexander settled at Babylon where, in late 324 BC, he received embassies from a number of western peoples including the Etruscans, Bruttians, and Lucanians of Italy, as well as the Carthaginians.
Alexander: (fl. 12th Century). Monk and historian. Alexander is known as the author of an account of the life and reign of the Norman Roger II, the first King of Sicily.
Alexander I, St: Pope (r.AD 105/107 – 115/116). A native of Rome, he succeeded St. Evaristus and was succeeded by St. Sixtus I.
Alexander II (real name: Anselmo Badagio): (b. in Milan; d. 1073). Pope. (rSept 30, 1061-Apr 21, 1073). He played an important role in the history of the Normans, giving his approval to both the invasion of England by William the Conqueror (1066) and that of Sicily by Robert Guiscard (1071).
Alexander III (real name: Rolando Ranuccio): (b. Siena; d. 1181) Pope. (rSept 7, 1159-Aug 30, 1181).
Alexander IV: (real name: Renaldo de’ Conti di Segni): (b. (full entry)
Alexander V (real name: Pietro Filargo): (b. 1340, d. 1410, Bologna). Antipope. (r1409-1410).
Alexander VI (: real name: Roderigo Lanzol y Borja [Borgia] ) : (b. (full entry)
Alexander VII (real name: Fabio Chigi): (b.1599; d. 1667 ) Pope. (rApr 7, 1655-May 22, 1667).
Alexander VIII (real name: Pietro Ottoboni): (b. 1610; d. 1691). Pope. (rOct. 6, 1689-Feb 1, 1691).
Alexander Severus: (b. AD 205d. 235) Roman Emperor (rAD 222-235).
Alexis: (b. c394 BC, Thurii; d. c288 BC, Athens). Comic poet. A Greek from Magna Graecia. Alexis was said to have died at a very advanced age, perhaps 106 years according to Plutarch. After establishing himself at Athens, he earned a reputation as a master of Middle Comedy. He may have been the uncle of Menander, founder of New Comedy. Although it is known that he wrote 245 plays (including one dealing with the emancipation of women), all that has survived are about 140 titles and 340 fragments (totaling about 1,000 lines).
Alexius I Comnenus: (Grk. Alexios Komnenos): (b. (full entry)
Alezio >(anc. Aletium; med. Picciotti.) (LE): A commune in the province of Lecce.
Area: 16.53 km². Alt. 75 m. CAP: 73011. Tel. Pref.: 0833. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°3’44″28N/Long 18°3’32″40E. Population Information: 5,233 (2006e); 5,084 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Aletini.
History: Originally a town of the ancient Messapians, a new center called Picciotti arose around the church of S. Maria della Lizza.
Points of Interest: The site of the ancient town is marked by the church of S. Maria della Lizza.
Monuments: Several remains from ancient Aletium can still be seen including tombs with Messapian inscriptions.
Museums:
Municipal Library: The collection includes several Messapian inscriptions from ancient Aletium.
Culture & Religion: Patron Saint(s): Our Lady of the Assumption.
Alfani, Francesco: See Francesco Alphanus.
Alfani, Orazio: (b. c1510; d. Dec. 1583, Perugia). Painter, stucco-worker, architect. Between 1539 and 1544, he worked in Sicily, producing several notable works, including a painted taburnacle and a marble tomb in the church of the Annunziata at Trapani, as well as stucco decorations in the Cathedral of Palermo.
Alfano >(SA): A commune in the province of Salerno. Area: 4.7 km². Alt. 260 m. CAP: 84040. Tel. Pref.: 0974. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°10’42″60 N/Long 15°25’33″60E. Population Information: 1,308 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alfanesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Zona del Lambro e Mingardo. Part of Regione Agraria n. 12 – Colline del Bussento.
Alfano (Alfanus or Alpuhans), St.: (d. 1085 at Salerno). Ecclesiastic. Having joined the Benedictine order and receiving an excellent education, he became a noted translator, writer, theologian and physician at the Montecassino monastery. In his capacity as a physician, he was one of the first doctors at the famous School of Medicine at Salerno (Schola Medica Salernitana). It was he who invited the great translator, Constantine the African, to Salerno to join him in the task of translating Arabic medical texts into Greek.
In 1058, he became archbishop of Salerno, a post he held until his death in 1085. His feast day is October 9.
Alfano, Andrea: (b. Apr. 6, 1879, Castrovillari [CS]; d. Sept. 9, 1967, Rome). Painter and poet. He was noted for his light landscapes and radiant images. His paintings at exhibited at the Uffizi. As a poet he composed several collections including Pars parva (1936), Solitudini (1948), and Sillaba (1950).
Alfano, Angelo: (b. Oct. 31, 1970 at Agrigento). Politician. Having obtained a law degree, he was elected (for first constituency of Sicily) to the Italian Chamber of Deputies (Camera dei Deputati) as a member of the Forza Italia party in 2001. He served as that party’s regional secretary.
Alfano, Franco: (b. Mar. 8, 1875 at Posillipo, near Naples; d. Oct. 27, 1954 at San Remo). Composer and pianist. After receiving private instruction, he graduated from the Conservatory of San Pietro a Majellan in 1885 at Naples. He received further training at Leipzig. There he composed several piano and orchestral pieces. During his career he wrote a number of operas and librettos. In 1918, he became director of the Conservatory of Bologna, and, in 1923, he directed the Turin Conservatory. Among his works were the operas Risurrezione (1904), La leggenda di Sakùntala (1921), and Cyrano de Bergerac (1936). In 1926 he completed Puccini’s unfinished opera Turandot.
Alfano, Ignazio: (b. June 29, 1892, Palermo). Naval engineer. As inspector general of naval engineering, he developed the Capitani Romani type of light cruiser in 1939.
Alfanus, St.: See St. Alfano.
Alfano da Termoli: (fl. 1st part of the 13th Century). Sculptor. He was a native of Termoli (CB).
Alfedena (AQ): >: A commune in the province of L’Aquila.> Region : Abruzzo. (full entry)
Alferius, St.: (b. AD 930, at Salerno; d. (full entry)
Alfiero (Alfieri), Giuseppe: (b. 1630, Naples; d. Jan 21, 1665). Operatic composer. His principal works were La fedeltà trionfante (1655) and Il trionfo della pace (1658).
Alfio, St.: (fl. AD 3 rd / 4 th centuries). (full entry)
Alfonsino: a name given to various Neapolitan coins struck under those kings of Naples named Alfonso. The alfonsino d’oro, a 1 ½ ducat gold piece weighing 5.34 grams, was introduced at Gaeta in 1437 by Alfonso V “the Magnanimous.” After securing the throne, he introduced the coin again in Naples in 1442. This alfonsino was worth 24 carlini in Naples and 12 taris in Sicily.
Alfonso: Prince of Capua (r1135-1144). He was the candidate of King Roger II.
Alfonso of Bisceglie: (b. c1481; died Aug. 18, 1500, Rome). (full entry)
Alfonso I of Naples and Sicily: See Alfonso V of Aragon.
Alfonso II of Naples: (b. Nov. 4, 1448; d. Dec. (full entry)
Alfonso V of Aragon: (I of Naples, Sicily, and Sardinia) “the Magnanimous” : (b. (full entry)
Ali’ >(ME): A commune in the province of Messina. Area: 16.69 km². Alt. 450 m. CAP: 98020. Tel. Pref.: 0942. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 38°1’42″24 N/Long 15°25’6″60 E. Population Information: 881 (2006e); 933 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Aliesi or Alioti.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 6 – Montagna litoranea dei Peloritani.
Ali, Luciano: (b. Siracusa; fl 1755-99). Architect. His principal work was the rebuilding of the Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco in Siracusa (1778-1788).
Ali, Salvatore d’: (fl. early 19th century). Artist. He created the façade for the Sicilian church of S. Bartolomeo at Scicli (RG).
Ali’ Terme> (MT): A commune in the province of Matera. Area: 6.15 km². Alt.9 m. CAP: 98021. Tel. Pref.: 0942. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 38°0’21″96 N/Long 15°25’24″60 E. Population Information: 2,585 (2006e); 2,569 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Aliesi or Alioti.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 6 – Montagna litoranea dei Peloritani.
Alia >(PA): A commune in the province of Palermo.
Area: 45.68 km². Alt. 726 m. CAP: 90021. Tel. Pref.: 091. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 37°46’51″60 N/Long 13°42’52″92 E. Population Information: 4,184 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Aliesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 2 – Montagna interna – Madonie Occidentali.
Economy:
History: Former Names-
Points of Interest: It is known as the Città Giardino.
Culture & Religion: Patron Saint(s):
Alianelli, Nicola: (b. 1803, Missanello (NA); d. 1886, Missanello). Jurist and historian. A proponent of Liberalism, he was expelled from his magistracy and imprisoned by the Bourbons. After the collapse of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, Alianelli became the director of the University of Naples. An expert in business affairs, he was also an historian and the editor of a version of the Tavole d’Amalfi, the historically important medieval/Renaissance maritime code.
Aliano >(MT): A commune in the province of Matera.
Area: 96.29 km². Alt. 498 m. CAP: 75010. Tel. Pref.: 0835. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°18’50″76 N/Long 16°13’54″84 E. Population Information: 1,234 (2006e); 1,284 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alianesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Collina Materana.
Alibrandi, Francesco: (b. Messina; d. 1711). Jesuit and casuist.
Alibrandi, Girolamo (“Raffaello da Messina”): (b. 1470, Messina; d. c1524, Messina). Painter. Known as the “Raffaello da Messina” (Raphael of Messina), he received his first formal training from Salvo d’Antonio and later became the pupil of Antonello at Venice, and of Leonardo da Vinci at Milan. At Rome he became familiar with the works of Raphael. His masterpieces include a Purification of the Virgin and a now-lost Presentation in the Temple (1519, church of Cadelona). Among his other extant works is a landscape of Randazzo in that town’s cathedral.
Alibrandi died of the plague at the age of 59.
Alicata: The Saracen name for Licata in Sicily.
Alicudi (or Alicuri): (anc. Ericusa) the westernmost of the Lipari Islands. Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea (Lat. 38º 55’ N Long. 14º37’ E), it has a maximum altitude of 675 m.
Alife >(CE): A commune in the province of Caserta.
Area: 63.87 km². Alt. 110 m. CAP: 81011. Tel. Pref.: 0823. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 41°19’37″56 N/Long 14°20’5″64 E. Population: 7,357 (2006e); 7,164 (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alifani.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Zona del Matese. Part of Regione Agraria n. 4 – Medio Volturno.
Alife, Former Diocese of: A former diocese erected in the 5th century AD. On Sept. 30, 2000, it was united with the diocese of Caiazzo to create the diocese of Alife-Caiazzo.
Alife-Caiazzo, Diocese of
Suffragans:
Metropolitan: Napoli.
Conference Region: Campania.
Area: 580 km²/ mi²
Total Population:63,417.
Catholic Population:
Total Priests: 57(Diocesan: 48; Religious: 9)
Permanent Deacons: 4
Male Religious:
Female Religious:
Parishes: 44
History:
Alimena >(PA): A commune in the province of Palermo.
Area: 59.39 km². Alt. 740 m. CAP: 90020. Tel. Pref.: 0921. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 37°41’40″92 N/Long 14°6’52″20 E. Population Information: (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alimenesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 9 – Colline interne – Colline di Alimena.
Alimenta, Torrente: A waterway (length: 12 km) in Campania, located in the provinces of Caserta and Benevento. Rising near Calvisi, it flows into the river Volturno at Scafa S. Domenico.
Alimentus, Lucius Cincius: (fl. late 3rd Century BC). Roman statesman, historian, soldier, and jurist. Having served as Tribune of the People in 214 BC, he was appointed as praetor in Sicily for 210/ 209 BC. He commanded the two legions which had been sent to Sicily as punishment for their defeat by Hannibal at Cannae. Alimentus continued his military career after returning from Sicily and, sometime after 208 BC, was captured by Hannibal. During his captivity, he was treated with great respect by the Carthaginian general.
In his later years, Alimentus devoted himself to writing a number of works including those on grammar and law. His greatest work, however, was the “Annales”, a Greek history of Rome from its foundation through the 2nd Punic War. Although little of Alimentus’s writings survive, he received high praise from Livy.
Alimera, Bernardino: (b. 1861, Cosenza; d. 1915, Modena). Penalist and legal philosopher. A professor at the University of Cagliari and Modena, he was an important advocate of prison reform, writing several important works on this subject.
Aliminusa >(PA): A commune in the province of Palermo.
Area: 13.71 km². Alt. 450 m. CAP: 90020. Tel. Pref.: 091. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 37°51’54″00 N/Long 13°46’55″56 E. Population Information: (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Aliminuensi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 7 – Colline interne – Colline del San Leonardo.
Aliotta, Antonio: (b. 1881, Palermo; d. 1964). Philosopher. In 1919 he became a professor at the University of Naples. From 1924 to 1943, he was director of the Neapolitan magazine Logos. Philosophically, he advocated Experimentalism, supporting the value of scientific experimentation to gain an understanding of the universe.
Al-Kamuk: The Emir who led the Saracen invasion of Sicily in AD 828. The Sicilian city of Alcamo is named for him.
Alkimos (Lat. Alcimus): (b. Sicily; fl. mid-4th century BC). Greek historian and philosopher. His History of Sicily was the first historical work to mention the legend of Romulus and the account of his founding of Rome. In another work, a 4-book philosophical and mathematical study entitled Ad Aminta, he supported the view that the doctrines of Epicarmus had a strong influence on Platonism.
Allacciante esterno (or meridionale), Canale (AQ): A canal (length: 40 km) in the Bonifica del Fucino. It connects S. Pelino di Avezzano with the river Giovenco
Allava (Alba, Allaba): a town of ancient Sicily, located on the river Allava. Mod. Ribera [AG].
Allava (Alba, Allaba) River: a river in ancient Sicily, rising in the Cratas mons, and emptying into the African Sea (Africum pelagus) to the E of Thermae Selinuntiae.
Allegra, Salvatore: (b. 1898, Palermo; d. 1993, Florence). Composer. During his career he wrote several operas and operettas.
Allerius, St.: (b. 930 in Salerno; d. 1050). Born into the noble Pappacarboni family, he vowed to follow a religious life if he would be cured of a serious illness. After recovering his health he became a monk at the monastery of Cluny, France. He was later ordered by Duke Gisulf of Salerno to return home to reorganize and reform the religious houses there. The corruption he found there proved too great and he eventually retired to a hermitage outside the city in 1011. He later joined with 12 other hermits to found the Benedictine Abbey of La Cava. Sources claim that he lived for 120 years. Feast Day: April 12.
Alli, Torrente (1): A torrential stream (length: 46 km) in Calabria (province of Catanzaro), rising at an altitude of 1,270 m in the Sila Piccola, at a point near the border with the province of Cosenza, between M. Bruno and M. Ianni. It flows to the SE, passing Taverna, and emptying into the Gulf of Squillace, to the NE of Catanzaro Marina.
Alli, Torrente (2): A torrential stream (length: 12 km) in Basilicata. It rises on Monte Cugno della Bambagia (1,430 m) and flows into the river Agri in the Piane della Mattina, near Viaggiano (PZ).
Alliata (or Agliata): A prominent Sicilian family. Originally from Pisa, they established themselves in Sicily during the 14th century, receiving the title of Barons of Villafranca in 1413. In 1609, one of their members, Francesco Alliata, received the title of Prince. In 1625, he also became the Duke of Salaparuta. The family produced many distinguished members, including Girardo Alliata (Protonotary of the kingdom of Sicily during the 2nd part of the 15th Century); Giuseppe Alliata (marshal of the camp for Charles VI), who was awarded the position of Grande of Spain 1st Class in 1721; and the patriotic leader Giuseppe Alliata.
Alliata, Giuseppe: (b. 1787, Naples; d. 1844). Politician and patriotic leader. Holding the title of Prince of Villafranca, he was a member of the Sicilian Parliament. In 1810, he was delegated to deliver Parliament’s grievances to the Bourbon government. As a result of this, he was arrested and sent as a prisoner to the island of Pantelleria in 1811. This arrest created such a vehement protest from the English government that he was released. Returning to Sicily, he became President of the Camera dei Pari and Foreign Minister of the Sicilian Constitutional government. During the 1820 revolution, he became president of the State junta.
Allifae (Alifae; mod. Alife [CE]): an ancient town of the Pentrian Samnites, located on the Via Numicia, between Ebritiana and Sepinum. It was noted for its manufacturing of large drinking cups. A Roman colony was established here in the 1st century BC.
Alliste >(LE): A commune in the province of Lecce. Area: 23.47 km². Alt. 54 m. CAP: 73040. Tel. Pref.: 0833. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 39°56’58″56 N/Long 18°5’22″56 E. Population Information: 6,581 (2006e); (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Allistini.
All Souls’ Day: ( Festa dei Morti ): Observed on November 2 nd , this holy day is devoted to the memory of all departed souls. (full entry)
Almari: A Sicilian surname of Saracen origins. It derives from the Arabic al-mari (=brave, courageous).
Almensa, Girolamo: (b. Naples; fl. 2nd part of the 15th century). Ecclesiastic, diplomat. A Dominican, he rose to become bishop of Policastro in 1485. Under Pope Alexander VI (r1494-1503), he served as paple ambassador to the Kingdom of Naples.
Almirante: A family of notable actors who flourished during the 19th and 20th centuries. Among their best-known members were Pasquale Almirante (b. 1799, Capua; d. 1863, Sant’Angelo), Nunzio Almirante (b. 1837, Collesano [PA]; d. 1906, L’Aquila), Guiseppina Almirante (1826-1865), Giacomo Almirante (b. 1875, Palermo), Luigi Almirante (b. 1886, Tunis), and Italia Almirante Manzini (1890-1941).
Almirante Manzini, Italia: (b. 1890, Taranto; 1941, Sao Paolo, Brazil). Actress. Born into a famous southern Italian acting family, she became a celebrated actress in the Italian silent film industry from 1912 to 1923. After 1924, she gave up her movie career in favor of the stage.
almonds: One of the principal exports of Sicily. Travelers in the early the 20th century wrote that the blossoming almonds orchards found in Sicily rivaled the cherry groves in Japan.
Aloara: Co-Duke of Capua (r982-992).
Aloisio, Gian-Francesco: (b. Campania; d. 1564). Poet. He was executed in 1564 for heresy.
Aloja, Giuseppe: (b. Naples; fl. c1750). Engraver.
Alpan: Etruscan goddess of love and the underworld.
Alphaeus, River: A river in E Sicily which fed the famous fountain of Arethusa in Syracuse. According to ancient legend, it was actually the same river as its namesake in western Greece. According to Greek mythology, the river god Alphaeus fell in love with the nymph Arethusa and pursued her until, in an effort to escape from him, she swam across the Adriatic Sea to Sicily where she was turned into a fountain. Relentless in his pursuit, Alphaeus plunged deep into the earth and burrowed beneath the Adriatic to emerge again in Sicily. There he dove into Arethusa’s Fountain, forever blending their waters together. Ancient writers claimed that it was a proven fact an object tossed into the Alphaeus River in Greece (whose waters do indeed disappear underground) would eventually reemerge in Arethusa’s fountain.
Alphanus (or Alphani), Francesco: (b. Salerno; fl. late 16th Century). Medical writer.
Alpheias: A water nymph associated with the fountain of Arethusa in Sicily.
Alphius, St.: (b. Vaste; d. AD 251). Martyr. According to his legend, he and his siblings were natives of Vaste (LE). With his two brothers, Philadelphus and Cyrinus, his sister, Benedicta, and several other Christians, he was arrested during the persecution under Emperor Decius. After being tortured at Rome, they were transported with other Christians to Puteoli (mod. Pozzuoli). There one of their companions, Onesimus, was executed. Of Benedicta’s ultimate fate, there is no record. The brothers, however, were taken on to Sicily where, at Leontini [mod. Lentini], they were executed. Alphius was killed by having his tongue torn out, Philadelphus by burning, and Cyrinus boiled to death. The three brothers are patron saints of Lentini [SR]. Although most Roman Catholic sources now admit that Alphius and his siblings were fictitious, they are still officially listed as saints and martyrs. Feast Day: May 10.
Alphonse: (d.1144). Duke of Capua (r1135-37; 1137-1144).
Alphonso III: (b. 1265; d. 1291). King of Aragon (r1285-91). He fought both the Papacy and Venice on behalf of the claims of his brother, James II, to the throne of Sicily. In 1291, he signed the treaty of Tarascon and withdrew his support from James.
Alphonso IV: (b. 1299; d. 1336). King of Aragon (r1327-36). The son of James II, under his reign he faced a revolt in Sardinia, and found himself entangled in a prolonged war with Genoa for control of that island.
Alphonso V: See Alfonso V of Aragon (I of Naples, Sicily, and Sardinia) “the Magnanimous”.
Alphonsus Marie Liguori, St.: (original name: Alphonsus Marie Antony John Cosmos Damien Michael Gaspard de Liguori): (b. (full entry)
Alpus (Grk. Alpos): In classical mythology, he was a Sicilian Giant, a son of Gaia, who was slain by the god Dionysus. According to Nonus (Dionysiaca 45.174), during the war between the gods and giants, Dionysus speared Alpus with thyrsos. The gravely wound giant fell into the sea, forcing up “Typhaon’s Rock” (i.e. the island of Sicily) to the surface. Alpus’s name means alps or mountains.
Altamonte (or Altamonti), Martino: (b. 1657 or 1682, Naples; d. 1745). Painter. Considered to be one of the best painters of his day, most of his works deal with historical or architectural subjects.
Altamura (BA): a town in the province of Bari, located 42 miles from Taranto, at the foot of the Apennines. Area: 427.75 km². Population: 67,903 (2007e); 67,312 (2006e); 64,167 (2001); 57,874 (1991); 51,346 (1981). Alt. 468 m. CAP: 70022. Tel. Pref.: 080. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°49’48″72 N/Long 16°33’16″20 E. Inhabitants Designation: Altamurani.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 4 – Murge di Altamura. Part of Parco Nazionale dell’Alta Murgia.
Its principal monument is a Norman style cathedral dating from 1220. It produces a notable wine.
Altamura, Saverio: (b. 1826, Foggia; d. 1897, Naples). Painter. As a student at the Academy of Naples, he became friends with D. Morelli. In 1850, having joined a conspiracy against the Bourbons, he was forced to flee to Florence. A sentence of death was decreed upon him should he ever return to the Two Sicilies. This decree lapsed in 1860 when the Bourbon dynasty fell. Returning to Naples in 1860, where he developed a reputation as a painter in the Romantic style inspired by Morelli. Altamura normally chose historical and religious subjects for his paintings.
Altamura-Gravina-Acquaviva delle Fonte, Diocese of: A see suffragan to Bari-Bitonto. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Region of Puglia. Area: 1,309 km². The former diocese was Altamura was established in 1248, while that of Acquaviva delle Fonti dates from AD 465. The two were united in 1848. A third see, that of Gravina (of 9th century foundation), was added in 1986.
Altanum: A town in ancient Bruttium, situated on the Locrensis sinus, on the Via Traiana between Locri and Scylla.
Altavilla: A variant of the name Hauteville.
Altavilla, Pasquale: (b. 1806, Naples; d. 1872, Naples). Actor and playwright. For many years he was noted for his comic roles at the theater of S. Carlino. In 1864, he began to play at other Neapolitan theaters including the Sebeto, the Parthenope, the Fenice, and the Nuovo. He also penned about 60 comic plays based on everyday life.
Altavilla Irpina >(AV): A commune in the province of Avellino.
Area: 14.10 km². Alt. 334 m. CAP: 83011. Tel. Pref.: 0825. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 41°0’28″80 N/Long 14°46’55″92 E. Population: 4,220 (2007e); 4,233 (2006e); 4,143(2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Altavillesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Zona del Partenio. Part of Regione Agraria n. 8 – Colline di Avellino.
Altavilla Milicia >(PA):
Area: 23.79 km². Alt. 73 m. CAP: 90010. Tel. Pref.: 091. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 38°2’20″04 N/Long 13°32’57″12 E. Population Information: (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Altavillesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 11 – Colline litoranee – Colline litoranee di Termini Imerese.
Altavilla Silentina >(SA):
Area: 52.23 km². Alt. 319 m. CAP: 84045. Tel. Pref.: 0828. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°31’56″28 N/Long 15°7’54″48 E. Population Information: (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Altavillesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Zona del Calore Salernitano. Part of Regione Agraria n. 7 – Medio Sele.
Althann, Marianna Pignatelli, Contessa di: (b. 1689. Naples; d. 1755, Vienna). Favorite of Emperor Charles VI, she was the wife of Barcellona Giovanni Venceslao, count of Althann (d. 1722). In 1730, she moved to Vienna in order to be closer to the Emperor.
Altieri, Ciro degli: (b. Naples; fl. middle of the 18th Century). Ecclesiastic. Bishop of Acerra in 1761.
Altilia (>anc. Saepinum) >(CB) (1): A frazione in the commune of Sepino (CB), located 25 km S of Campobasso. Ancient Saepinum was a town of the ancient Samnites which later came under the control of the Romans. The ruins of the ancient ruins, located about 3 km N of the center, are considered among the best-preseved in Italy.
Altilia >(CS) (2): A commune in the province of Cosenza. Population: 782 (2006e).
Area: 10.70 km². Alt. 594 m. CAP: 87040. Tel. Pref.: 0984. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 39°7’53″40 N/Long 16°15’12″60 E. Population Information: (2001); (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Altiliesi.
Location & Setting: Part of Regione Agraria n. 5 – Versante Sud/Ovest della catena costiera.
Altilio (: Lat. Altilius ), Gabriello (Gabriele): (b. (full entry)
Altino (CH): A commune in the province of Chieti, located 44 km from Chieti, situated on a height overlooking the rivers Aventino and Sangro. Area: 15.23 km². Alt. 345 m. Population: 2,683 (2006e); 2,532 (2001). CAP: 66040. Tel. Pref.: 0872. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 42°6’1″08 N/Long 14°19’57″00 E. Inhabitants Designation: Altinesi.
Location & Setting: A center situated on a height between the Rio Secco and the river Sangro.
Economy: Agriculture. Sheep-herding.
Altobello, Francesco Antonio: (b. Bitonto, fl. 17th century). Painter. He lived most of his life in Naples. A student of Carlo di Rosa, he was best known for his extensive use of ultramarine in his works.
Altofonte: (formerly Parco)(Sic. (full entry)
Altomare (or Altomari, Aldimari), Biagio: (b.1639; d. 1713). Neapolitan jurist. A member of the Aldimari family, he is best known as the author of Pragmaticae edicta, decreta, regiaeque sanctiones Regni Neapolitani (1682).
Altomare (or Altomari), Donato Antonio (Lat. Donatus ab Altomari): (d. c1566). Physician and medical writer. After a successful medical career, he was forced to live for a time in exile. Through the offices of Pope Paul IV (r1555-1559), he was allowed to return to Naples. He is best known as the author of Ars Medica (1553).
Altomari, Biagio: See Biagio Altomare.
Altomonte: (anc. Balbia) >(CS): A commune in the province of Cosenza. (full entry)
Altomonte, Martino>: (b. 1657, Naples; d. 1745). Painter. Establishing himself in Vienna, he enjoyed a long, prosperous career as a portrait painter. His best known works include portraits of the Austrian Emperors.
Altopiano Centrale>: The central plateau of the island of Sicily. It encompasses the provinces of Caltanissetta and Enna.
Altosa, Torrente>: A torrential stream (length: 8 km) in the province of Chieti, Abruzzo. Having its source in the Lago Nero, on the N slopes of the Monti dei Frentani, it flows into the river Sinello, at a point above the town of Guilmi (CH).
Aluntium (Haluntium): An ancient town on the north coast of Sicily, near Calacta. Situated on a steep hill, at the mouth of the river Chydas, it was noted for its wine.
Alvarez, Diego: (b. Castile, c1550; d. c1633). Ecclesiastic and theologian. In 1606 he became Archbishop of Trani, in Apulia. His principal work is De Auxiliis Divinae Gratiae (On the Aids of Divine Grace).
Alvaro, Corrado: (b. 1895, Reggio di Calabria; d. 1956, Rome). Writer. Having begun his journalistic career writing for the Resto del Calino and the Corriere della Sera, he also contributed work ro such important Italian publications as Mondo and Fiera Letteraria. He served as special envoy for La Stampa and served as director for Il Polol di Roma (Rome) and Il Risorgimento (Naples). After publishing Poesie Grigioverdi in 1917, he turned to writing novels a series of novels. These were based on the Calabrian culture of his youth, set among the rural communities of the Aspromonte. Among his other works were essays and diaries including Itinerario italiano, L’Italia rinunzia, and Quasi una vita.
Alvaro, Giovanni: (b. Naples; fl. 1st half of the 18th century). Painter.
Alvignano >(CE): A commune in the province of Caserta. Area: 37.65 km². Alt. 132 m. CAP: 81012. Tel. Pref.: 0823. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 41°14’44″52 N/Long 14°20’11″40E. Population: 4,914 (2006e); 5,063 (1991). % Change in Population from 1991 to 2001: . Population Density (2001): / km². Inhabitants Designation: Alvignanesi.
Location & Setting: It is located 27 km N of Caserta, to the right of the river Volturno. Part of Comunità Montana Zona Monte Maggiore. Part of Regione Agraria n. 4 – Medio Volturno.
History: Major earthquakes were felt here in 1688, 1930, 1980, and 1984.
Alvino, Enrico: (b. 1810 at Naples; d. 1876). Architect.
Alycus, River: (mod. Vrillo). A river of ancient Sicily, emptying into the sea between Gela and Camarina.