Ferla
Discover Ferla, the medieval village in the Sicilian hinterland
If you're looking for an authentic experience, away from the crowds of the most famous tourist sites, we recommend visiting the village of Ferla, located in the Sicilian hinterland, in the province of Siracusa.
Etymology
The name Ferla has an interesting history that dates back to the Norman and Roman era. In Sicilian dialect, the town is called "A Ferra", a name that derives from the definite article. The late Latin form of "Ferula" refers to the Norman family that established their settlement in this area. The name of the village may also derive from the Latin "ferula", which means cane or giant fennel, and is found in many Romance languages.
Physical geography
Ferla is located on top of the Iblei Mountains, in the Anapo valley, about 40 kilometers southwest of Siracusa. The village is surrounded by pristine nature and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Ferla is an ideal place for those seeking tranquility and want to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
History
The history of Ferla dates back to the Middle Ages, when the village formed around the castle. The villagers lived in cave houses and the village was characterized by an intricate system of alleys and streets. In Ferla, you can still admire the traces of that historic period, such as the castle, stone houses, churches, and ancient fountains.
What to see in Ferla
Ferla has a very interesting cultural and natural heritage to visit. The village has maintained its ancient appearance, with stone houses adjoining each other and narrow and winding alleys that connect the corners of the village. Among the main attractions of the village, there are the Mother Church, the Church of San Francesco, and the chapel dedicated to the Madonna della Neve. In addition, in Ferla you can visit the caves of San Giovanni and the caves of Sant’Anna, which are located a few kilometers from the village and are accessible through a forest path.
What to do in Ferla
Ferla is the ideal place for those seeking tranquility and want to enjoy the beauty of nature. The village offers numerous outdoor activities, including walks and hikes in the Iblei Mountains, visits to caves, bike rides, and picnics in the surrounding meadows. In addition, Ferla is famous for its culinary delights, such as and toppeddi, a dish made of vegetables and bread, and tuma and ricotta, a typical cheese of the area.
How to get to Ferla
Ferla is easily accessible by car from Siracusa, Catania, and Ragusa. The village is about 40 kilometers from the sea, but the road to get to Ferla is very scenic and offers beautiful views of the mountains.
Conclusions
In summary, Ferla is a magical and authentic place, where you can still breathe the atmosphere of the past and enjoy the beauty of Mediterranean nature. The village is ideal for those who want to escape from the confusion of the cities and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Sicilian countryside. A visit to Ferla is an experience that we highly recommend!
