About the city and the twinning
About Caltagirone
Caltagirone is a historic hill town in southeastern Sicily, known for its ceramic workshops and Baroque architecture. Its historic centre forms part of the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the region’s reconstruction after the earthquake of 1693. The town’s ceramic tradition is especially visible on the Santa Maria del Monte Staircase, whose 142 steps are decorated with colourful majolica tiles. Each summer, lanterns illuminate the staircase during celebrations honouring Saint James, the town’s patron saint.
Twinning with Bethlehem
In June 2022, Bethlehem Mayor Hanna Hanania and Caltagirone Mayor Fabio Roccuzzo signed a twinning agreement in Caltagirone. An olive tree was planted to mark the occasion as a symbol of peace and friendship between the Palestinian and Italian peoples.
The agreement promotes sustainable tourism, pilgrimage and professional exchanges. It calls for the two municipalities to share expertise in managing World Heritage sites, conserving historic and cultural heritage, and working with ceramics and mosaics. It also provides for cooperation in education, commerce, culture and religious affairs through activities such as joint exhibitions, festivals, camps and pilgrimage visits. The agreement took effect upon signing and has no fixed end date.