Camporotondo Etneo
Welcome to Camporotondo Etneo!
Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about a town in Sicily that is definitely worth visiting if you are in the area: Camporotondo Etneo! With just over 5,000 inhabitants, this town is located in the metropolitan city of Catania and is situated on the south-eastern side of the famous Etna volcano.
Physical Geography
Territory
The territory of Camporotondo Etneo is truly suggestive: it is located in an area affected by several peripheral eruptive cones and significant tectonic subsidence (which we Sicilians call "le timpe"). These characteristics make it one of the most significant areas of the Etna region.
History
Let's now discover the history of Camporotondo Etneo. This town was already autonomous since 1654 and owes its name to the shape of its original inhabited center. It was one of the many small rural centers (called "casali") that surrounded the city of Catania. In 1560, the historian Fazello cited Camporotondo among the villages known as "the vineyards of Catania or the Bishop of Catania."
During the reign of Philip IV of Spain, many properties of the royal demesne in Sicily were put up for sale to recover financial liquidity. Among these properties were also the Catania casali, including Camporotondo, which became the subject of speculative buying and selling operations, with the aim of obtaining the noble titles of relevance.
It was the Genoese Giovanni Andrea Massa who bought Camporotondo and many of the casali that were once owned by the Bishop of Catania. It was a vast territory that included Mount Etna with all its agricultural and lush forest areas, which was later resold. In 1654, Camporotondo was bought by Antonio Reitano for 2,800 ounces and in 1730 the marquisate passed to the Natoli family through marriage.
The Marquisate of Camporotondo
During the period when Camporotondo was part of the marquisate, the territory obtained its autonomy and was administered by a "Leconte" who operated independently, even though he was directly appointed by the Marquis. The population of the marquisate grew significantly, from the 220 "fuochi" recorded in 1602 to 1,600 inhabitants in 1655.
Francesco Natoli, who was Marquis of Camporotondo, distinguished himself for his activity as a patriot and promoter of numerous laws as a member of the Senate of Messina.
Conclusions
So, friends, if you are passionate about history and wish to visit a fascinating and suggestive town, come and discover Camporotondo Etneo! Its territory will offer you a panoramic view of the Etna volcano, one of the symbols of Sicily, and the timpe, the tectonic subsidence, will create a unique atmosphere. Don't miss exploring the historic center, which has retained its original charm, and getting to know the history of the marquisate that made Camporotondo autonomous and independent. I'm waiting for you here!
