Where we live _Caltanissetta

History
Caltanissetta’s origins can be traced back to 406 BC, when admiral Nicia of Hamilcar’s siege force from Carthage established a fort at the site, later called Castra Nicia (Fort Nicia). In 829 AD, the town was occupied by the Saracens. The similarity of the Carthaginian name to the Arabic word nissa (meaning “women”) resulted in the Saracen name of Qalat al Nissa (“Fort of the Women”), which has since been Italianized to Caltanissetta. The settlement was captured by the Normans in 1086. A charter was granted to the town in accordance with Count Roger Borsa’s vast plan for the urbanisation of Sicily, whose plan is still evident today.

After the Normans, the city was under the Hohenstaufen, the Anjou and the Aragonese. Here, Frederick II of Sicily was proclaimed king.

In 1406 Caltanissetta became a domain of the Moncada family of Paternò, and subsequently declined deeply. In 1539, the construction of the Cathedral was started and in1566 a notable bridge was built over the Salso River. During this period the city began to expand outside the walls, and new quarters (Santa Flavia, San Rocco degli Zingari and San Francesco) were created.

On July 8, 1718, the city was assaulted by Piemontese troops, causing a large losses of population. In 1787, Johann Wolfgang Goethe payed a visit.

In 1813, after 406 years, the Moncada signory ended as the feudal constitution was abolished and Caltanissetta turned into the 22th Comarca of Sicily. In 1819 it was declared capital of province, but one year later it was sacked as a punishment for its loyalty to the Bourbon House. In 1844, it was elevated to bishopric seat.

After many Nisseni had taken part to his Mille’s deeds, Giuseppe Garibaldi entered the city, together with Cesare Abba and Alexandre Dumas. On October 22 of the same year, a Plebiscite declared Caltanissetta part of new Kingdom of Italy.

In 1875, however, the people rose against the prefect, who was fired. On April 8, 1878, the city was connected to a railway, ending its historical access difficulties. Three years later, the King Umberto I visited Caltanisetta along with his wife and his son.

The city was heavily damaged during World War II.

http://sicilyguide.com/what-to-do/cities/caltanissetta/