Caccamo
Caccamo: a municipality in the province of Palermo
Caccamo is a municipality located in the province of Palermo, in Sicily, with a population of about 7,736 inhabitants. The town is part of the Union of Municipalities of the Lower Valley of the Torto River, and is situated approximately 521 meters above sea level at the foot of Mount San Calogero. Caccamo's territory is vast and borders with 14 other municipalities. The town is surrounded by natural reserves such as Mount San Calogero to the east and Pizzo Cane, Pizzo Trigna, and Grotta Mazzamuto to the west. Caccamo is located about 10 km from the sea of the Gulf of Termini Imerese and 45 km from the regional capital, Palermo.
History of Caccamo
Origins
The first settlements in the territory of Caccamo date back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by the "grotticelle" spread throughout the area. However, the city of Caccamo has uncertain and definitive origins. According to some theories, the term Caccamo derives from the Punic-Carthaginian "Caccabe," the Greek "Kakkabe" or "Kakabe," the Latin "Cacabus," the Arabic "Kakum," or the Sicilian "Caccamu." According to legend, the city was founded around the 4th-5th century BC by the Carthaginians.
Arab domination
The period of Arab domination was very tumultuous for Caccamo. In particular, the revolt of the Girgenti Berbers, which took place from spring 939 to 940, led to the destruction of some Berber strongholds in the inner part of the province of Palermo, the Platani valley, and Agrigento. During this period, the city had the function of an observation tower, and the castle was a fortress.
Norman era
With the Norman conquest in 1076, Caccamo became a county and was fortified by Roger I. In the twelfth century, the construction of the Castle began, which grew at the expense of the inhabited center of Petterana.
Modern era
With the passage of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the Kingdom of Italy, Caccamo became an autonomous municipality. In 1848, the town participated in revolutionary demonstrations but without success. During the twentieth century, the town experienced strong economic development thanks to agriculture and industry.
Monuments and places of interest
The Castle of Caccamo is the main monument of the town. Situated on top of a hill, it offers a breathtaking view of the valley. The Castle was built in several phases starting from the twelfth century. Inside, there are different rooms, including the Chapel of San Giorgio and the Civic Museum, which houses exhibits about the history of Caccamo.
The historic center of Caccamo is characterized by narrow and winding streets that wind among old houses. Among the most important churches are the Church of the Holy Savior and the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Events and festivals
Caccamo is famous for the traditional "San Calogero Festival." The festival takes place every year on June 11th-12th-13th and attracts tourists from all over Sicily. During the three days of the festival, there are costume parades, musical performances, and fireworks.
During the summer, Caccamo also hosts the "Palio dei Normanni." The event, held on the last Sunday of July, recalls the history of the Normans in Sicily with horse shows and costume parades.
Finally, Caccamo also hosts the "Italian Film Festival" in September, which showcases the latest Italian cinema.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Caccamo is a town rich in history and traditions. The Castle, historic monuments, and the town center are just a few places of interest in the town. The San Calogero Festival, the Palio dei Normanni, and the Italian Film Festival are some of the events that animate the town throughout the year. If you are looking for a tourist destination in Sicily, Caccamo is definitely a place to visit.
