Alcara li Fusi
Alcara Li Fusi: Among the Nebrodi Mountains in Sicily
Hello everyone! Today I'm talking about a small Sicilian town: Alcara Li Fusi. Located at 398 meters on the slopes of the Nebrodi Mountains, this village is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the metropolitan city of Messina.
Territory
The territory of Alcara Li Fusi is characterized by the presence of the Nebrodi Mountains, which extend from the summit of Mount Crasto in the northeast, to the plateau of Miraglia, with Mount Soro, which reaches 1,847 meters in altitude. The village is nestled on the banks of the Rosmarino River, which crosses the valley sculpting the territory and giving life to beautiful landscapes.
History
The origins of Alcara Li Fusi are still shrouded in mystery. According to a legend from past centuries, the village was founded by Patrone, a Greek from the city of Tyre, accompanying Aeneas after landing on the coast with some of his companions. However, there is no historical evidence that can link Alcara Li Fusi with Tyre or the Greco-Roman city of Turiano.
According to local tradition, the village was born based on the destruction by the Saracens of Crasto and Demenna in 855. This event would have pushed some of the inhabitants to move to an area further downstream. However, the identification of Alcara with Krastos and the location of Demenna are uncertain, and the current village may have arisen from the progressive abandonment of settlements located further upstream.
Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, Alcara Li Fusi took the Arabic name of ''Akaret'', which means "fortress". The presence of this fortress testifies to the strategic position of the village throughout history. In fact, the Alcara Li Fusi territory has been the subject of numerous military and political events, starting from Norman and Swabian domination to the fight against brigandage and resistance during the Second World War.
Cultural Heritage
The cultural heritage of Alcara Li Fusi is very rich and varied. Among the most important monuments, we can mention the Mother Church and the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, both dating back to the XIV century and enriched over the centuries by numerous artistic and architectural interventions. In addition, there are numerous noble palaces and the ruins of the fortification of Castel Turio.
Events and Traditions
Alcara Li Fusi is famous for its rich cultural and gastronomic tradition, which is expressed through numerous festivals and fairs throughout the year. Among the most important events, we can mention the feast of San Giovanni Battista, the Rosary Festival, Carnival, and the Sagra della Salsiccia.
Economy
The economy of Alcara Li Fusi is mainly based on agriculture and livestock farming. In the surrounding countryside, numerous high-quality products such as olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, figs, capers, and cheeses are cultivated. Furthermore, the territory is rich in meadows and pastures, ideal for cattle and sheep farming.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Alcara Li Fusi is a hidden treasure among the Nebrodi Mountains in Sicily, an ideal place for those seeking the beauty of nature, history and culture, good food, and the genuine hospitality of Sicily. I recommend visiting this village and discovering its magic!
