Castanea delle Furie
Castanea delle Furie: A Place with a Meaningful Name
Castanea, or Castanea delle Furie, is a small hamlet in the municipality of Messina, located in the hills of Sarrizzo, which is part of the VI District of the capital city. The name Castanea may derive from Latin or Greek and is related to the chestnut tree, also known as the "bread tree" for its wide range of uses, from producing fruits to tanning leather and firewood. The epithet "delle Furie" does not refer to the windy climate of the place, but to its peripheral geographical position compared to the city of Messina, called "ad Foras". Castanea was an important hamlet of Messina, a holiday destination for noble families of the time, thanks to its hilltop location, healthy air, and rural tranquillity.
Physical Geography
Castanea delle Furie is situated on the hills of Sarrizzo, at an altitude of about 400 meters and 10 km from the city of Messina. Its hilly location allows for panoramic views of the Strait of Messina and the surrounding areas. The hamlet is surrounded by gentle hills which often lead to the sea. The privileged geographical position has made Castanea a favourite holiday and residence location for noble families of the Messina aristocracy. Nowadays, the hamlet still retains a complex urban structure, enriched by the presence of numerous heritage villas and artworks.
History
Historical sources on Castanea delle Furie are very scarce, but it is believed that its foundation dates back to the period of the birth of the city of Messina. The village, probably located in a slightly more exposed area towards the Tyrrhenian Sea than its current position, maintained its importance over the centuries thanks to its privileged geographical position. Castanea was, in fact, an important hamlet of Messina and was frequented by important noble families of the time, who built numerous villas there. The Messina Earthquake of 1908 caused destruction and demolitions which impoverished the hamlet's monument heritage.
The Beauty of Castanea delle Furie
The hamlet of Castanea delle Furie is a place of great beauty, characterized by its hilly landscape and the presence of heritage villas and artworks. The village offers the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding nature and the panoramic views of the Strait of Messina. The privileged geographical position makes Castanea a perfect place for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature. In addition, its proximity to the city of Messina allows for combining a relaxing countryside holiday with the possibility of visiting the beauties of the city.
Activities in Castanea delle Furie
In Castanea delle Furie, it is possible to practice numerous outdoor activities, such as walks and hikes on the surrounding hills, visits to nearby villages and seaside towns, bike rides, and trekking. Moreover, the hamlet offers the opportunity to taste the local cuisine and typical products of the area, such as chestnuts, olives, olive oil, and wine. Castanea delle Furie is also an ideal place for those who want to spend a relaxing countryside holiday, away from the chaos of the city.
In summary, Castanea delle Furie is a place of great beauty and charm, offering the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding nature and panoramic views of the Strait of Messina. The hamlet still retains a complex urban structure, enriched by the presence of numerous heritage villas and artworks. Castanea delle Furie is also an ideal place for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature, without sacrificing the opportunity to visit the beauties of the city of Messina and the surroundings.
