Giovanni Verga is one of the most famous authors of Italian literature. The writer was born in Catania, and his city today pays homage to him with the presence of the Casa Museo Giovanni Verga. If you have enjoyed the works of Verga or if you are true fans of Italian literature you can not miss the opportunity to visit this place.
Inside the House Museum you can still breathe an authentic and original atmosphere. Spending time at this property is ideal for those looking for a truly immersive and engaging experience.
The life of Giovanni Verga
Giovanni Verga was born in Catania in 1840, and has linked his name to the literary movement of Italian Verismo. In reality his beginnings as a writer are linked to works of a more purely romantic, but growing up he was able to fully embrace Realism, of which he became one of the leading exponents (along with another Sicilian, Luigi Capuana).
His works have become true pillars within Italian literature. Just think of the novels I Malavoglia and Mastro Don Gesualdo, which in the original plans had to be part of a cycle of five books. He also wrote collections of novels that were much appreciated by the public.
His bond with Catania was really strong: he was born, lived and died in this city.
La Casa Museo
Giovanni Verga spent his life in Catania, specifically in the house that now houses the museum dedicated to him. The building is located in the historic center of the city, more precisely in via Sant’Anna 8. The structure actually predates the same Verga. It seems that it was built during the 18th century.
After being inhabited for decades by the writer, it remained closed for some time. It was not until 1940, the year that marked the centenary of the birth of Giovanni Verga, that it was declared a national monument. In the following decades it became the museum we know today.
Over time the building has been restored, while many experts have worked on a reconstruction as precise as possible of the interior, also trying to expand the number of finds and evidence of the author’s life.
The aim is to offer the public a place that keeps intact the memory of Giovanni Verga.
What you need to know about Casa Museo
If you are spending a few days in Catania we advise you not to miss the opportunity to visit the Casa Museo Giovanni Verga. The exhibition consists of a large number of personal items that the writer really owned. These are not only simple objects, such as books or instruments, but also elements such as letters, photographs and manuscripts.
The library of Giovanni Verga can be really fascinating: it consists of about 2500 volumes, a truly impressive collection.
Inside the Giovanni Verga House Museum the subdivision of the rooms has been kept unchanged. Walking through this building you will pass through rooms such as the studio, true witness of the great creativity of the author, and like the bedroom.
The Giovanni Verga House Museum has taken on a truly important role in the cultural fabric of Catania, and for several years it has not limited itself to organizing only events dedicated to Verga, but its spaces are often occupied by temporary exhibitions and events closely related to Sicilian culture.
Foto : La Stampa
How to reach Casa Museo Giovanni Verga
Getting to Casa Museo Giovanni Verga is not very difficult. The location certainly helps a lot: the building is located near Via Etnea, which is the main street of the historic center of Catania. So if you are already walking through the center you just need to make a small detour to reach the House Museum.
Those arriving in Catania by train can easily reach the museum on foot. From Catania Centrale station it takes about 20 minutes, during which you can walk through the streets and alleys of Catania, places nothing short of fascinating.
Alternatively you can use the buses. Several lines pass near the Casa Museo, so we recommend that you inquire according to the location from which you intend to leave.
Enjoy the dishes of Catania
After visiting the Casa Museo Giovanni Verga you may have an appetite. In this case you just have to immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of Catania cuisine. Many restaurants near the museum offer typical dishes, some of which are perfect for those who want to enjoy fresh fish cooked in a unique and special way. Speaking of seafood: an excellent fried paranza will know how to fill your stomach with really delicious food.
Obviously you can not forget the arancini, which represent one of the most famous Sicilian recipes, with a reputation that has long exceeded the borders not only of the island, but also of our country.
To conclude a good dessert: in Catania, in addition to the classic cannoli stuffed with ricotta, you could try the minne di Sant’Agata, pastries that are prepared in honor of the patron saint of the city.
Copertina: La Stampa
