The so-called Roman Baths of Misterbianco are remains of an ancient Roman aqueduct, in the middle of piazza della Resistenza, on the northern edge of town, not far from the old centre; one of the streets crossing the square is named via delle Terme in their honour. The structure carried the water flowing down from Santa Maria di Licodia to Catania, making it available to the villages along the way.
What to see
The earliest mention of the remains is by Ignazio Paternò Castello, Prince of Biscari, and the French painter and traveller Jean Houel also recorded and drew them. Later the structure was adapted as a dwelling.
From the sixties of the twentieth century, with the heavy urban growth of the area, the municipality restored the site. In 1998, while demolishing some ruins along via Giuseppe Garibaldi, not far from the square, further remains of the same aqueduct came to light, but they are not yet open to the public.
Visiting
The remains are on piazza della Resistenza and can be seen from outside; any openings should be checked with the municipality.
Our editors' tip
At Christmas a nativity scene with life-size figures is set up inside the baths.
