The little-known Sicilian village that is a gem: of medieval origin and nestled on top of a hill
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and picturesque villages, Sicily continues to gain popularity year after year as one of the favorite destinations for many travelers from Spain. However, it's also true that some of these towns have become overcrowded. And while any trip to Sicily almost requires a stop in Cefalù, Erice, or Trapani , we suggest you also consider Calascibetta , a small town away from the crowds where you can immerse yourself and enjoy the most authentic Sicily, as well as visit important archaeological finds.
One of the most beautiful villages in Italy
You'll need to be in good shape to fully explore this picturesque medieval village (of Arab and Norman origin), which is among the least touristy on the island, despite being included in the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy . Located in the heart of the Sicilian mountains, navigating its steep streets is a challenge. We begin our exploration in the main square, where you'll find a mix of old and new buildings, as well as the 18th-century Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
What to see in CalascibettaOn the way to the upper part of the village , you'll find more churches, many of them closed, while others are open to the public. These include the 16th-century Sant'Antonio Abate and the 16th-century Capuchin church of San Francesco di Assisi. One church stands out above the rest, however: the 14th-century Royal Palatine Chapel or Church of San Pietro e Santa Maria Maggiore . It was built by the Spanish king Peter II of Aragon on the foundations of an old Norman castle. The remains can be seen on the glass floor next to the sacristy.
Caves carved into the rockThe Norman Tower is another place of interest; you'll see it when you reach Piazza San Pietro . Built in 1079, it was the tower of the old castle and today serves as the bell tower of the Church of San Pietro. Later, on Via Carcere, you'll come across ancient caves carved into the rock (one of which was once a prison), of Byzantine origin, which are a preview of those you'll see in Canalotto. The steep path leads to the Jewish Quarter, whose origins date back to the 14th century, along a path that will pass by beautiful medieval courtyards and staircases.
The best panoramic view, from Enna
Since its founding in the Arab era, Calascibetta has grown in the shadow of Enna, its sister town located opposite it and also on a hill. And it's precisely from this city that you can take the most beautiful photos of this Sicilian village, which few tourists include in their itinerary.
Cave visits near Calascibetta
We recommend completing your visit to this village with a trip of less than an hour, which is the time it takes to reach the Byzantine troglodyte village of Canalotto. This interesting rock-cut settlement is four kilometers from Calascibetta and consists of a series of spaces carved into the rock, among which the Byzantine churches with their columbariums stand out. You can also visit the rock-cut necropolis of Realmese and its 288 troglodyte tombs.
20minutos
