Bivona
Hi everyone! Today we will talk about Bivona, a town located inland in the Province of Agrigento, in Sicily. With a population of about 3205 inhabitants, the city is famous for the cultivation of Bivona peaches and for the production of a unique artisanal chair.
History
Bivona has a rich and ancient history dating back to the Roman Empire, but it was first documented during the Islamic period of Sicily. Over the centuries, it was an important feudal center of the Vallo di Mazara and welcomed various religious orders, including the Jesuits. In 1554, Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, elevated Bivona to the Duchy of Bivona, the first in the Kingdom of Sicily, conferring on it the title of city in Italy. The city is also known for the cult of Saint Rosalia, one of the oldest of which there is certain information.
Physical Geography
Territory
Bivona covers about 89 km² and is located on the border of the province of Agrigento and the metropolitan city of Palermo. The Bivona territory is partially included in the Oriented Nature Reserve of Monti di Palazzo Adriano and the Valley of Sosio, in the Park of Monti Sicani. The soil extends from an altitude of 64 meters in the southern zone up to 1,436 meters in the top of Mount delle Rose, north of the village. The town is located at an altitude of 503 meters above sea level.
Orography
Bivona is located at the foot of the Sicani Mountains and has a mountainous landscape with Mesozoic limestone-dolomite reliefs. Most of the territory is located in foothill and hilly zones, while a small portion belongs to the mountain zone. The main peaks of the Bivona territory are Mount delle Rose, Mount Pernice, Pizzo San Filippo, Mount Scuro, and Pizzo Mondello.
Economy
The economy of Bivona is mainly based on agriculture with the cultivation of Bivona peaches, famous throughout Sicily for their sweet and juicy taste. In addition to peaches, Bivona is famous for the production of a unique artisanal chair. Artisanship is also one of the most developed sectors of the city, with the production of ceramics, fabrics, and wood products. Tourism is another growing sector thanks to the beauty of its natural landscapes.
Culture and Tourist Attractions
Bivona boasts numerous cultural and historical attractions, such as the remains of the synagogue that testify to the presence of the Jewish community in the past. The historic center of the city has a medieval layout with churches and religious buildings, including the Church of San Nicolò and the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia. The city also conducts a series of events and manifestations throughout the year to promote its culture and traditions, including the Bivona Peach Festival and the Bivona Carnival.
Conclusion
Bivona is a small town with a great history and a rich and varied culture. With its natural beauty, its production of peaches and crafts, and its cultural tradition, Bivona is a unique place to visit. I hope this summary has allowed you to appreciate the beauty of this city and that it has given you the inspiration to visit it in the future!
