Building on the palace began in 1307 with the Chiaramonte family, one of the wealthiest and most powerful in the Aragonese period. It belonged to Andrea, the last descendant, who was executed on 1 June 1392 opposite the entrance to the building. After that it became known as Palazzo Steri, or lo Steri, from the term Hosterium, i.e. fortified dwelling, a feature clearly visible in its square clean-cut structure. Lo Steri thus became the palace of Martin I of Aragon and of Blanche de Navarre, and later the residence of the Spanish viceroys. In the 17th cent. it was the seat of the Tribunal of the Inquisition, a function it performed until 1782, when this lugubrious institution was abolished in Sicily.

It is still possible today to see the writings, drawings, and paintings of the nameless victims who were imprisoned here after their trial - these items are to be found in what are known as the "carceri Filippine" (Philippine prisons) - a long room accessible from the inner courtyard, divided by pointed arches supported by powerful columns.

The Steri still preserves its original three-floor structure, and the façade is embellished by two orders of exceptionally beautiful three-light mullioned windows.

The essential lines of this particular form of Gothic architecture have earned it the specific appellation of "Chiaramontan" style, much used in that period in civil buildings in Sicily.

The Great Hall, dating from the late 1300s, is famous for the beauty of its wooden ceiling, with its paintings of biblical episodes and tales of chivalry.

Details of Palazzo Steri

La "Vucciria" di Guttuso a Palazzo Steri (Palermo)
(click on the photos to enlarge)