Italian architect. He was one of the leading architects working in the Sicilian Baroque. In spite of never leaving Sicily, his work showed great understanding of the style. His architectural activity began in 1702 with the cathedral at Modica. The domed Basilica of San Giorgio in Ragusa was designed 1738 and built 1744-66). It shows that Gagliardi's style evolved simultaneously with the evolution of Sicilian Baroque. The church of San Giorgio is thought to be the prototype for all the other churches in the region. Gagliardi was also responsible for numerous other churches and palazzi in Noto and other places on the island. //