Natoli’s epic tale of the sect of the Beati Paoli is set against the backdrop of actual historical events, filled with characters who actually lived. Many of the locations, monuments, churches, and buildings still exist, plunging readers into an early eighteenth century Palermo that one can still visit in the present day city. 

Readers not familiar with Sicilian history or Palermo will find these additional notes helpful.

 Unless otherwise stated, notes are by the translator.

Principal references cited:

RLD    Natoli, Luigi. I Beati Paoli. Introduction and endnotes by Rosario La Duca. S. F. Flaccovio: Palermo, 1971.

AC      Natoli, Luigi. I Beati Paoli. Introduction and footnotes by Adriana Chirco. Dario Flaccovio Editore: Palermo, 2015.

SE       Natoli, Luigi. I Beati Paoli. Introduction by Maurizio Barbato. Sellerio Editore: Palermo, 2016.

PCG    Chirco, Adriana. Palermo City Guide. Dario Flaccovio Editore: Palermo, 1998.