Nicosia, Sicily

The origin of Nicosia is uncertain. Engio, Erbita and Imachara are the three cities of antiquity with which historians have attempted to identify Nicosia with, but there is no evidence that the mentioned towns are in fact Nicosia. The present name of the town suggests Greek origins: it is believed to get its name from Saint Nicholas (Νίκου Οίκος, Níkou Oíkos). Another theory suggests it is a derivative of the Greek saying "City of Victory" (Νίκης Οίκος, Níkēs Oíkos). The town is believed to stand on the site of the ancient Engynum. The modern town was founded by Byzantine colonists in the 6th century. It expanded under the Arab domination and later under that of the Normans, who settled numerous immigrants from Lombardy and Piedmont, called "Lombards", giving rise to the Gallo-Italic dialect still spoken in the town and surrounds. King William II made Nicosia a royal city. It played an important strategic role, favoured by its position halfway between Palermo and Messina. It often gave hospitality to important figures, including Emperor Charles V.

Nicosia Cathedral.

• The cathedral, built in the 14th century over a pre-existing Norman edifice, is dedicated to St. Nicholas. The façade has a noteworthy 15th century portal, while the interior houses a painting by Jusepe de Ribera. The campanile is from the 13th century.
• Santa Maria Maggiore contains a 16th-century holy water stoup, the throne of Charles V, a fine marble polyptych by Antonello Gagini.
• Church of St. Benedict (14th century)
• San Biagio has paintings by Giuseppe Velasquez and a triptych by Antonello Gagini.
• The Church of the Carmine boasts an Annunciation by Antonello Gagini.
• The church of San Salvatore.

There are also remains of the castle in the upper part of the town.

• Roman Catholic Diocese of Nicosia, Sicily

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