Sala degli Specchi: Noto's Opulent Hall of Mirrors
On Noto's grand Corso Vittorio Emanuele stands Palazzo Ducezio, the city's town hall and home to the famed Sala degli Specchi, or Hall of Mirrors. This stately room is a testament to the Sicilian city's aristocratic past and its celebrated Baroque architecture.
The History of Palazzo Ducezio
The Sala degli Specchi is housed within Palazzo Ducezio, a structure whose construction began in 1746. Designed by architect Vincenzo Sinatra, the palace was inspired by 17th-century French palaces. Its prominent location on Piazza Municipio, directly opposite the Cathedral, was a deliberate choice during Noto's reconstruction after the 1693 earthquake, symbolizing the balance between civic and religious power. The palace's first floor was completed in 1830, but the second story, which contains the Hall of Mirrors, was not added until 1949-1951 by architect Francesco La Grassa. The later addition was designed to blend seamlessly with the original building.
From Theater to Reception Hall
Before its current opulent state, the oval-shaped room had a different life. It initially served as a small theater and later as a council chamber. Towards the end of the 19th century, the space was transformed into the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. It was lavishly decorated with stuccos, gold, and sumptuous mirrors in the Louis XV style, complemented by Liberty-style ceiling decorations. A significant restoration took place in the early 1930s to prepare for an official visit from Umberto and Maria Josè of Savoy, then the Princes of Piedmont.
Art and Notable Details
The room's artistic centerpiece is the large neoclassical ceiling fresco, 'La Fondazione di Neas,' painted by Antonino Mazza in 1826. It depicts an allegorical scene where Ducezio, the 5th-century BC King of the Sicels and founder of ancient Noto, is shown the site of his new city. The hall also holds other historical artifacts, including a telegram sent by Italian unification hero Giuseppe Garibaldi to the patriots of Noto in 1860, which is displayed on the left side of the room.
The Sala degli Specchi Today
Following renovations in the 1990s, the Sala degli Specchi officially reopened on July 14, 2001. Today, it functions as the official reception hall for the Noto Town Hall. It is used for significant civic events, important ceremonies, weddings, and hosting illustrious delegations, including heads of state, sovereigns, and ambassadors. Visitors can access the hall for a small entrance fee to admire its splendor.
FAQ
What is the Sala degli Specchi in Noto?
The Sala degli Specchi (Hall of Mirrors) is the opulent, oval-shaped reception hall of Noto's Town Hall, located within Palazzo Ducezio. It is known for its Louis XV style, lavish mirrors, and gold stucco work.
Who is depicted in the ceiling fresco of the Sala degli Specchi?
The central fresco, painted by Antonino Mazza in 1826, features an allegorical depiction of Ducezio, the 5th-century BC King of the Sicels, who is considered the founder of ancient Noto (Neas).
What was the original purpose of the Sala degli Specchi?
Before becoming the ornate Hall of Mirrors, the oval-shaped room originally functioned as a small theater and was later used as a council chamber.
Can you visit the Sala degli Specchi?
Yes, the Sala degli Specchi is typically open to visitors for a small entrance fee. It continues to serve as the official reception hall for the city, hosting ceremonies and official events.
