Ferrante de Gemmis

Ferrante de Gemmis, born in Terlizzi, near Bari, on April 14, 1732, was an Italian philosopher and literary man. His parents were Baron Tommaso de Gemmis and Francesca Bruni. He received his education in Naples, where he earned a degree in law. De Gemmis inherited the estates of his uncle, Minister Ferrante Maddalena. He was acquainted with the philosopher and political economist Antonio Genovesi. In Terlizzi, he established an Academy, becoming a leading figure of the Enlightenment in the Apulia region. He declined a judgeship to dedicate himself to philosophical writing, which he pursued anonymously due to his modesty. His portrait is featured in the "Dictionary of the notable people of the Reign of Naples." De Gemmis passed away in Terlizzi on April 21, 1803.