Aci Castello
Aci Castello: a Sicilian town rich in history and symbols
If you love history, mythological legends, and breathtaking natural landscapes, then you must visit Aci Castello, a town of over 17,000 inhabitants in the metropolitan city of Catania, Sicily.
History
The history of Aci Castello is very ancient, and it is said that the Greek city called Xiphonia, which stood near the present-day Aci Catena, may be associated with the foundation of the Aci, of which Aci Castello is a part, along with other hamlets.
According to the poets Virgil and Ovid, mythology tells that the love between Galatea and Aci, the shepherd boy, gave rise to the foundation of Aci Castello. Polyphemus, the cyclops, in love with Galatea, caused a rivalry between the two lovers and ultimately killed Aci. The nymph then, distraught, turned her love into a river, which carried away Aci's body.
In Roman times, the city was called "Akis" and participated in the Punic Wars. In Norman times, the city was known as "Jachium," and the Normans built the castle called Castello di Aci. In the seventeenth century, during Spanish rule, the other hamlets in the area claimed administrative autonomy, and the separation of Aci was decided. Thus were born Aci Castello, Aci Bonaccorsi, Aci San Filippo, Aci Sant'Antonio, Aci Santa Lucia, and Aci Catena.
Symbols
The municipality of Aci Castello can boast the coat of arms and flag granted by the president of the Republic decree of April 22, 2014, and a red drapery as a flag.
Monuments and places of interest
If you are passionate about architecture, both religious and military, you cannot miss Aci Castello. In particular, you cannot fail to admire:
Religious architecture
The mother church of San Mauro dates back to the seventeenth century and is considered a masterpiece of Eastern Baroque style. The church is characterized by a central dome that immediately catches the eye.
The Church of San Giuseppe, also from the seventeenth century, is a church dedicated to St. Joseph and is located in the historic part of the city.
Military architecture
The magnificent Aci Castle dates back to the twelfth century and consists of an imposing structure, built by the Normans and located on a promontory overlooking the sea.
The Nespolo House in Aci Trezza is a museum dedicated to the memory of the famous novel "I Malavoglia" by Giovanni Verga.
Archaeological sites
Traces of the vast Greco-Hellenistic necropolis of Aci Castello date back to the 1950s when excavations for the construction of an elementary school brought to light the remains of a burial area. Other traces were found in the 1970s and in the late 1990s, but the archaeological site was partially destroyed by coastal development.
Natural areas
The Integral Natural Reserve of Isola Lachea and the Cyclops Faraglioni is a protected area that protects both the terrestrial and marine areas of the Cyclops archipelago with Isola Lachea. The beauty of this place is indescribable and must be seen in person to be appreciated.
Society
Aci Castello today has over 17,000 inhabitants and over the years has undergone a constant demographic evolution. The State Road 114 Orientale Sicula runs through the municipality and there is a connection to Catania provided by an AMT bus line.
Conclusion
Aci Castello is a pearl of Sicily, a city that has preserved its history and traditions over the centuries. Whether you want to admire the ruins of past centuries or enjoy the natural beauty of the area, Aci Castello is a destination not to be missed. The city is easily accessible and offers a wide choice of tourist itineraries, monuments, and places of interest.
