Aci Catena
Welcome to Aci Catena!
Hello everyone! Today I'm going to talk to you about Aci Catena, a beautiful town in Sicily with a population of about 27,759, located in the metropolitan city of Catania. Here you will find plenty of sunshine, sea, history, and culture. Are you ready to discover everything there is to know about Aci Catena?
Physical Geography
The territory of Aci Catena is truly enchanting. The town is located just a few kilometers from the sea, and its hilly terrain offers breathtaking panoramic views. The climate is mild all year round, with not too cold winters and hot and dry summers. The rains, however, mainly concentrate between October and March due to the "stau effect".
The History of Aci Catena
Aci Catena derives its origins from Xiphonia, a Greek city that has now disappeared. According to Greek mythology, the name of the city derived from the love story between a nymph named Galatea and a shepherd boy named Aci, as well as the Cyclops Polifemo. The city also participated in the Punic Wars during the Greek and Roman era.
During the Middle Ages, the town was called "Jachium" and later "Al-Yag" during the Arab era. Its history would be closely shared with that of the other farms of Acireale until the seventeenth century, when the remarkable economic development of Aquilia Nuova caused contrasts and rivalries with other farms that demanded administrative autonomy. This is how Aci Catena, Aci Bonaccorsi, Aci Castello, Aci San Filippo, Aci Sant'Antonio, Aci Platani, and Aci Trezza were born.
During the earthquake of 1693, an earthquake that affected all of eastern Sicily, Aci Catena was damaged but had a relatively low number of victims, perhaps thanks to the protection of the Madonna della Catena, which later became the object of a strong cult.
What to See in Aci Catena
If you come to Aci Catena, culture and history will certainly not be lacking. You can visit the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima di Valverde, which dates back to the Middle Ages and is believed to have been founded during this period. The sanctuary has been expanded and restored over the centuries to the current appearance.
Additionally, you cannot miss the Castello di Aci, which dates back to the twelfth century and is situated atop a hill, from which you can admire the entire territory of Aci Catena and its surroundings.
Festivals and Traditions
Aci Catena celebrates numerous religious festivals throughout the year. In particular, every third Sunday in October, the Madonna della Catena, the patron saint of the city, is celebrated with a grand procession that involves the entire local community. In addition, the living nativity scene takes place in December, which attracts thousands of visitors every year and has become an event of great cultural value for the town.
Conclusion
I hope this brief guide has made you fall in love with Aci Catena, a city with a unique charm that now embodies all the history and tradition of eastern Sicily. Come visit and be amazed by its beauty!
