town and episcopal see, southeastern Sicily, Italy. It lies on the southern slopes of the Hyblaei Hills southwest of Syracuse. Noto was founded in 1703 about 4 miles (7 km) southeast of the Siculan and Roman city of Netum, which was destroyed in the earthquake of 1693. The town's 18th-century cathedral and the Palazzo Ducazio are notable among its many fine Baroque churches and palaces. Between 1837 and 1865 Noto replaced Syracuse as the provincial capital. The communal library houses a small local museum.