Aristocratic palaces in the XVIII century in Palermo : The construction site of Merendino-Costantino palace

Abstract

Palermitan XVIII-century palaces constitute a proper housing typology aimed to reach the highest standards of artistic quality and representativeness. Supported by unlimited financial resources,aristocrats commissioned to famous architects the design and the direction of their construction-sites; nevertheless, technologies were essential and often influenced by an instance of economy with the most effective exploitation of local resources. This work focuses on the constructive specificities of the Palermitan palaces, with reference to the construction history of the Merendino-Costantino Palace, one of the most representative of the historical centre. Its history defines a repertory of constructive cases that marked fundamental steps of construction, in relation to specific events (earthquakes, city ordinances, etc.). Ultimately, this work is aimed to define a repertory for scholars and technician working/ studying in historical construction. Furthermore, such information spread over local applications: frequently, indeed, Palermitan – and Sicilian in general - technical culture can be observed in national and international spheres with particular reference to peninsular Italy, Spain, and France.