The site of Vilhena Palace has been inhabited since ancient times , and post-Punic remains have been found in the area . In around the 8th century , a Byzantine fort was probably built on the site , and in the Middle Ages it developed into a castle known as the '' Castellu di la Chitati '' . The castle 's inner walls were demolished in the 15th century , and the remaining part was built up as a palace by Grand Master Philippe Villiers de L'Isle-Adam in the 1530s . The palace was called the '' Palazzo Giuratale '' , and it housed the civil administrative council known as the Università . The structure was damaged in the 1693 Sicily earthquake
1693 Sicily earthquake
1693 Sicily earthquake
Vilhena Palace