Calatabiano
Welcome to Calatabiano: a brief introduction
Welcome to Calatabiano, a small town with a population of 5095 located in the metropolitan city of Catania, on the beautiful island of Sicily. Calatabiano is famous for its privileged location, which is less than 3 kilometers from the Ionian Sea, and for its castle that stands on a hill at 160 meters above sea level. In this article, we will explore the physical geography of the city, its history, and its tourist attractions.
Physical geography
Calatabiano is located at an altitude of 62 meters in a fertile and well-irrigated alluvial plain, delimited to the north by the Alcantara River. The town extends over the surrounding hills and is 42 kilometers from Catania and 58 kilometers from Messina. About 75% of the population is concentrated in the town center, and the rest in the fraction of Lapide Pasteria. Calatabiano is a town that is part of the Alcantara River Park and offers breathtaking views of Mount Etna.
History of Calatabiano
The history of Calatabiano is closely linked to that of its castle, which stands on a hill at 160 meters above sea level, at the southern entrance to the Alcantara Valley. The castle, in its current configuration, with the annexed walled hilltop village, can be traced back to a first Norman-era summit fortification. During Norman rule, Calatabiano was founded in 1135 and became a barony. During the Swabian history of Sicily, the castle was given to Giovanni Moro, a Muslim servant of his father. After various lords who succeeded each other over the centuries, the most important period of Calatabiano's history was with the lordship of the Cruyllas. The Cruyllas held the barony for about a century, enlarging the castle and building the Church of the Holy Crucifix.
Tourist attractions
The castle of Calatabiano is one of the main tourist attractions of the city and offers a unique panoramic view of the Alcantara Valley and the surrounding city. The Church of the Holy Crucifix, built during the Cruyllas lordship, is another important attraction in Calatabiano. The historic center of the town is also a pleasant walk, with its cobbled streets, market, and towering clock tower. Furthermore, along the course of the Alcantara River, it is possible to practice water sports, such as rafting and canyoning.
Food and wine
Calatabiano is famous for producing Etna DOC wine, which is produced on the slopes of Mount Etna. Local cuisine is characterized by dishes made with fresh fish, such as pasta with sardines, and specialties made with meat, such as 'pasta alla Norma' with eggplants and salted ricotta. In addition, Calatabiano is famous for its 'ricotta cake', a dessert made with fresh cheese, almonds, and sugar.
Conclusions
Calatabiano is a city rich in history and natural beauty, with many tourist attractions and delicious local cuisine. We invite you to visit Calatabiano and discover the beauty of its castle, unique panoramic views, and delicious local cuisine. If you love history and nature, Calatabiano is the perfect place for you!
