Founded in 1908, Catania are one of the smaller Serie A clubs and one of two based on the southern Italian island of Sicily (the other being Palermo). They have a modest history, having spent most of their time in the lower leagues.
For the second year in a row the club will start the season with a new coach after losing theirs to bigger clubs. With a large number of little-known Argentinians in their squad, they will be looking to match last seasons impressive thirteenth placed finish.
Full Name : Calcio Catania
Team Colours : red and blue vertical stripes
Nicknames : rossazzurri, elefanti (elephants)
Coach : Marco Giampaolo
Stadium : Stadio Angelo Massimino, Piazza Spedini, Catania
Capacity : 23,500
Official Website : calciocatania.it
No major honours
The Stadio Angelo Massimino is located to the north of the city centre. The local fans occupy the northern end (curva nord) of the small stadium and create quite an atmosphere, especially when playing local rivals Palermo or Messina. Sometimes these rivallries have resulted in crowd trouble, notably in 2007 when a policeman was killed before a Catania - Palermo game.
Catania is dramatically situated between the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, Europe's greatest active volcano. As well as ruins from the ancient city, the town boasts a wealth of fine Baroque architecture. As well as the sights in town, Catania can be used as a base or a stopping off point for exploring Sicily. The fashionable resort of Taormina is nearby and a trip up Etna is easily done from the city.
For more detailed information on things to do and where to stay in Catania visit our sister website Italy Heaven - Catania.