Before the terrible earthquake that struck Eastern Sicily, “Old Noto” or “Noto Antica” stood strong in the Bronze Age of 2,000 – 1,500 BCE. It was founded as early as 800 BC, colonized by the Greeks and practiced advanced Hellenistic Culture. The 1693 earthquake forced Noto to rebuild its former glory - but under the supervision of Duke Camastra who envisioned Baroque ideals in the architectures and city planning. All structures were built with limestone material wherein if absorbed by the sun, radiates a Mediterranean golden glow envied throughout the Mediterranean Sea. Famous palaces and religious buildings designed by renowned architects can be found in Noto such as: Ducezio Palace, Villadorata Palace, Noto Cathedral or the The church of San Domenico.