Aci Sant'Antonio
History
Aci Sant'Antonio is a city located in the province of Catania, in Sicily. According to legend, Aci Sant'Antonio and the other cities of Aci originated from a mysterious Greek city called Xiphonia. The city was founded on the Veronica Road that connected Aci Reale with Nicolosi. During the year 1169, a strong volcanic eruption accompanied by strong earthquakes hit the city, forcing the inhabitants to move to pleasant areas rich in forests. Here, they founded the small village of Casalotto, which was located northwest of the current urban center of Aci Sant'Antonio.
The history of the village was connected to the fortunes of the nearby center called Acireale until 1639. Under Spanish domination, internal struggles induced the inhabitants of Casalotto and the nearby villages to request separation from Aquilia Vetere. This was ratified in 1640 by the signature of the cardinal lieutenant Giannettino Doria, archbishop of Palermo. After various struggles and clashes, the old center Aquilia separated into Aci Inferiore (Acireale) and Aci Superiore (Città amplissima e liberalissima di Jaci Sant'Antonio e San Filippo).
With the separation of the cities of Aci, Aci Sant'Antonio and Aci San Filippo incorporated several surrounding communities and centers. In 1644, the new city was sold to the Massa family, then in 1645 to the Diana family and finally in 1651 to the Riggio family, under whose domination it would remain for more than a century. Stefano Riggio Santo Stefano, prince of Campofiorito, obtained in 1672 the title of prince of Aci Santi Antonio and Filippo. To him are due the palaces of Aci Sant'Antonio and Aci Catena, which would become the most important civil buildings of the two centers.
In 1792, the repurchase was established and with a public act, the city of Aci Santi Antonio e Filippo became a free municipality.
Economy
The economy of the city is mainly based on agriculture and industry. In the surrounding area, citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and mandarins are mainly cultivated, but also seasonal fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, peaches, and tomatoes.
The local industry is based on the production of various products, such as worked stones, olive oil, wine, and wrought iron artifacts. In addition, the city is an important commercial center, with shops and markets that offer a wide range of local products and other essential products.
Culture
The city of Aci Sant'Antonio offers numerous cultural attractions. The city is famous for the "Holy Week", during which various religious processions take place through the city streets. The city also has several churches, such as the Mother Church, dating back to the seventeenth century, and the Church of the Madonna del Rosario, which dates back to the eighteenth century.
The city also hosts the "Museum of Peasant Civilization and Ancient Trades", which shows rural life and local craftsmanship. The museum presents agricultural tools, wrought iron artifacts, ceramics, and art objects.
Education
There are various schools in the city, from pre-school to higher education. The city also has a municipal library, which offers a vast collection of books in both Italian and other languages.
Sports
The city offers different sports facilities to meet the needs of its inhabitants. There are sports fields, such as the "Municipal Sports Field", where football matches and other outdoor sports take place. In addition, there are swimming pools, gyms, and sports centers that offer fitness classes and other activities.
Conclusions
In summary, Aci Sant'Antonio is a city with a vast history and culture. The economy is mainly based on agriculture and industry, while the city offers numerous cultural attractions such as churches, museums, and libraries. The city also offers various educational, sports, and recreational opportunities for its inhabitants.
