Foyer and Theater
The Foyer, an elegant and captivating space, is enriched with 19th-century furnishings and showcases containing taxidermy specimens, plaster models, and one of the original seven harps, all reflecting the musical tradition of the Educandato. Continuing into the Theater, an architectural masterpiece designed by Ignazio Greco, the ceiling features floral frescoes by Rocco Lentini and a medallion of Queen Maria Adelaide. Tapestries and delicate artworks celebrate Sicily’s history and beauty, making this space a vibrant tribute to culture and music, a legacy of significant figures like Erminia Bordiga.
The Foyer
We’ll start our tour from the Foyer, a room where elegance perfectly mixes with the charme of past. In this room we can find some precious furnishings dating back to Palermo’s Golden Age and its aristocracy. On both sides, there are two massive showcases containing a vast collection of embalmed animals for students to study and learn more about Natural Science. In another showcase there are some gypsum sculptures that students can observe to improve their drawing skills.
Moving further, you’ll see a grand showcase containing one of the 7 original harps, evidence that music was very important at that time.
This instrument is very precious for the school itself as it takes us back in time, when music livened up quiet nights, touching the hearts of those who had the chance to live there.
The Theater
Passing through the foyer, you’ll reach the theatre, an architectural masterpiece designed by the well-known engineer Ignazio Greco (1890 – 1897). This room was not just a place for acting performances, but school girls could meet here for special occasions. Every small detail celebrates art and beauty. The ceiling is decorated with floral patterns and vivid colours. It was frescoed by the well-known artist Rocco Lentini. Right in the centre, you’ll see Queen Maria Adelaide, symbol of virtue as well as a spiritual guide for the school.
The theatre seats can be easily removed and placing elegant thonet chairs, pianos and harps you can turn it into a less informal music hall.
The tapestries on the walls were painted by the school girls themselves under Lentini’s supervision. They depict the glorious deeds of Frederick II, a Sicilian king, symbol of culture and history.
Each door is adorned by watercolour paintings depicting some of the most beautiful areas in Sicily, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the archaeological site in Solunto and some views over Palermo.
The acoustic of the theatre is perfect and it was ideal for school performances, parties and official celebrations. The combination of music and culture offered a truly unique atmosphere.
Before leaving the theatre, pay homage to Erminia Bordiga’s portrait. She ran the school from 1884 to 1930 and she is considered one of the most important headmistresses of the school, leaving an indelible mark in its history.
Listen
Audioguides curated by the students of Educandato Statale Maria Adelaide
School Year 2024/2025
