THE STORYIt is a house of undisputed historical value, bordering a historical landmark of Termini Imerese, the former Jesuit College on Via Roma, for years then used as a courthouse, gymnasium, and library, now a historical archive and soon to be returned to the community as a cultural center.The Jesuits lived in the house until the mid-19th century, when it later belonged to Professor Giuseppe Navarra, a distinguished linguist, and archaeologist. He welcomed the U.S. Allied troops as they entered Termini Imerese on July 23, 1943, as an interpreter. Navarra spent part of his youth abroad as an expert consultant in commercial law and international trade, furthering his studies in economic sciences at Duquesne and Pittsburgh Universities. During World War I, he served as Secretary of the Italian Embassy and Secretary of the Italian Navy Supply Commission in Washington.In Termini Imerese, the American troops made the former Caserma Flora (today’s Municipal Offices) their district. They established their Headquarters at 12 Piazzetta Benincasa, precisely behind the Tribunal, a stone’s throw from the Town Hall. The Military Offices were settled right in the Town Hall.The city later recognized the merits of Prof. Navarra by naming a street after him.THE HOUSEThis property (approx. 200 sq.m. floor area) has three entrances—two directly to the piazza in front of it and one on the side.The main entrance leads into a spacious room with wonderful wooden ceilings. This room has been used as a dining room, connected to the small kitchen. The dining room opens to another spacious room with a balcony and lovely sea views. Here, we have a vaulted ceiling.On the other side, where there is also a separate entrance, are two identical rooms, both with vaulted ceilings. These rooms were used as lounges and study. A small bathroom, storage, and kitchen are in the middle. Upstairs are two rooms and a balcony.The property faces an open and lovely square in one direction and has a sea view in the other. The square is very calm, and you are only a stone’s throw from the main piazza of Termini Imerese. It is an excellent location.ABOUT RENOVATINGThe property needs some renovation, including the roof, the bathrooms, the kitchen, etc. Overall, though, the beams and floors are in good condition.The property’s historic character suggests a renovation that aims to preserve its authentic and valuable elements while adapting the space for more comfortable and modern use.You may also obtain a terrace designed according to the standards set by the regulatory bodies for houses in the historic center.
