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Polizzi Generosa - History

Nestled in the Madonite chain, this town's ancient origins remain shrouded in mystery. To some, it was the ancient Sicilian Athens. For others, its name is a derivative of Dei Palici, daughter of the nymph Thalia, and thus lending tis name to the Naftolia body of water which springs nearby.
The city's development occured during the domination of the Byzantine Empire and subsequently in the Norman epoch under the stimulus of Count Ruggero and Countess Adelesia. Polizzi became Generosa when Federico II granted the title in 1224.

The town houses works of significant artistic, historical and architectural merit.

In addition to the majestuous Palazzo Gagliardo dei Baroni di Carpinello the Church of San Pancrazio provides a wonderful panorama in the midst of a Byzantine neighbourhood and houses an important painting by Zoppo di Ganci. The Chiesa Madre, the Cathedral, also houses interesting paintings, including a Flemmish tryptic of the Memling school.