Contrada Lacco
Welcome to Contrada Lacco!
Contrada Lacco is a small hamlet located in the municipalities of Brolo and Piraino, in the province of Messina, Sicily. The village is built around the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows and offers a panoramic view of the Tyrrhenian coast and Brolo. Let's explore the history, monuments and traditions of this characteristic hamlet together.
Physical geography
Contrada Lacco is situated on a ridge, in a panoramic position from which one can admire the beauty of the surrounding nature. From the central square, where the church is located, one can enjoy a spectacular view of the coast and the sea. To the south of the hamlet, the summit of Brignolo can be seen, while to the west flows the Iannello stream.
Origin of the name
The toponym Lacco can be found in many places in Sicily, and its meaning derives from the Ancient Greek λάκκος, which means "pond, cistern". The most accredited theory suggests that there was a large water cistern in the area, from which Contrada Lacco took its name.
History
During World War II, Contrada Lacco was a place of refuge for many families from Brolo who fled due to the so-called "Operation Brolo Beach". Moreover, on April 15, 1978, this place suffered damages from the Gulf of Patti earthquake.
Monuments and places of interest
Religious architecture
The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, also known as the "Lacco Chapel", is the main place of worship in the hamlet. Dating back to the eighteenth century, it was rebuilt twice: once after a flood destroyed the previous building, and the second time after the damages suffered during the 1978 earthquake.
Civil architecture
Contrada Lacco also features two interesting civil architectures: the Old Fountain and the municipal villa, recently restored.
Society
Religion
The parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in Gliaca, belonging to the diocese of Patti, takes care of the spiritual needs of the hamlet.
Traditions and folklore
The main festival in Contrada Lacco is in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows and is celebrated every second Sunday of September. The festival, also known as the "Fire Festival" or "Lacco Luminaire", features the particularity of illuminated hot air balloons that are launched into the sky. This is a tradition recently revived, but it dates back to an ancient custom of rotating illuminated wheels in the sky, similar to fireworks, in honor of the Madonna. During the festival, traditional "schiacciate" olives and "nfurnata" meat dishes, typical of the area, can also be enjoyed, and visitors can participate in the game of "pignateddi".
Infrastructure and transport
Roads
Contrada Lacco is crossed by the provincial road 143 "Contrada Lacco", which connects it to the rest of the municipalities of Brolo and Piraino.
Conclusions
Contrada Lacco is a small jewel of the Sicilian Tyrrhenian coast, with its panoramic view of the sea and surrounding hills. The community lives in a welcoming and familiar environment, where tradition and the history of the place can still be felt. Contrada Lacco is a relaxing and ideal place for those seeking peace and tranquility, far from the stress of the city. Come and discover this wonderful place!
