Castroreale
Castroreale: a medieval gem in Sicily
Castroreale is an Italian municipality of about 2251 inhabitants located in the metropolitan city of Messina, in Sicily. This municipality is part of the circuit of the most beautiful villages in Italy, thanks to its strategic position on the Torace hill, to the northwest of the Peloritani mountains, and to its medieval beauty.
Physical geography
The main inhabited nucleus is located on the top of the Torace hill, above the Longano stream, where Gerone II, king of Syracuse, defeated the Mamertini in 265 BC. The streets and alleys of the city are narrow and steep, paved with a characteristic stone pavement, called "jacatu" in the local dialect, which opens onto belvedere squares that offer breathtaking views.
History
Castroreale has a long history dating back to the Norman-Swabian era. Over the centuries, the city has developed and numerous fortifications have been built on the Tyrrhenian coast to defend the Piana di Milazzo and the connections between the fortified centers of the Ionic coast through the Peloritani chain.
Norman-Swabian era
The first historical records of the city date back to 1324 when Frederick III of Aragon, King of Sicily, ordered the reconstruction of a pre-existing castle. The settlement that developed around the fortress was named Castro, from the Latin "castrum," meaning castle. Later, the inhabited center was renamed Castroreale because it was the favorite residence of King Frederick III of Aragon.
Aragonese era
During the Aragonese era, the Latin branch of the Angevins sought to establish dominion over Sicily. Compounding the situation were arranged marriages that increased the bonds between the various ruling houses. However, the dispute between the Latin and Catalan factions marked the time of the Sicilian Vespers.
Castroreale has undergone numerous changes over the centuries, but has always preserved its importance and beauty. The medieval city is rich in history and art and offers spectacular views of the surrounding territory.
What to see in Castroreale
There are many things to see in the city of Castroreale. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is one of the most important places. It was built in the eleventh century and is a Romanesque basilica with Norman influences. Inside, there are numerous works of art, such as the triptych by Simone Papa.
Another important church is that of San Pietro, located in the upper part of the city. Its construction dates back to the fourteenth century and is characterized by a beautiful Romanesque bell tower.
For those who love hiking, it's possible to take a beautiful panoramic tour around the city, which offers breathtaking views of the Tindari valley and the Gulf of Milazzo. You can also visit the Convent of the Franciscan Friars, a set of buildings built in the twelfth century by the Franciscan friars.
Conclusions
Castroreale is a small gem of Sicily. Its historical importance and medieval beauty make it a place to visit for those who love history and art. Moreover, its strategic position on Torace hill offers an exceptional panoramic view of the surrounding territory. If you're in Sicily, don't miss the opportunity to visit this city!
