Monterosso Almo
Discovering Monterosso Almo
Welcome to the discovery of Monterosso Almo, a small mountain town located in the province of Ragusa in Sicily. With its 2,791 inhabitants, this town is one of the least populated in the province, but is fortunate to be immersed in a splendid natural environment and to have a fascinating history.
Territory
Monterosso Almo is located about 28 kilometers from Ragusa and is the second least populated municipality in the province, after Giarratana. This town is situated on the Iblei Mountains, a few kilometers from the summit of Monte Lauro. Despite its mountainous location, the town is only 67 kilometers from Syracuse and is easily reachable through state road 194.
History
The origins of Monterosso Almo date back to ancient times and archaeological evidence shows that the territory was inhabited as early as the Sicilian era. During the Roman period, the hypogeum of Calaforno was used as a burial place, dwelling and refuge for Christians during persecution.
During the wars between Greeks and Sicilians, the local populations withdrew to the inner mountains, giving rise to other inhabited centers. Starting from 1168, the country became the property of Goffredo, son of Count Ruggero, and took the name of Monte Jahalmo. Subsequently, it was sold and repurchased six times by different noble families and counts.
Monuments and places of interest
Monterosso Almo is a municipality that encloses many architectural and cultural beauties. Among the most important churches are the Church of San Giovanni Battista, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a national monument and minor basilica, the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate or Diocesan Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sorrows, and the Church of Sant'Anna.
Religious architectures
The Church of San Giovanni Battista is the main place of worship in the town and is located on a hill that dominates the entire inhabited center. Its facade is in neoclassical style and was built in the 19th century, but there was already a previous one dating back to the 15th century.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, on the other hand, is one of the national monuments of Monterosso Almo and, since 1912, has been elevated to minor basilica. It was built in the 16th century in Baroque style and, inside, has precious works of art and decorations.
The Church of Sant'Antonio Abate or Diocesan Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sorrows, instead, is located along state road 194. This church was built on the ruins of the ancient windmill dating back to the 16th century and has become an important center of worship and pilgrimage.
Finally, the Church of Sant'Anna is another important church in the municipality and dates back to the Renaissance period. This church is characterized by a particular architecture and the presence of numerous valuable works of art.
Conclusion
Monterosso Almo is an ideal destination for nature and history lovers. This mountain town, despite being one of the least populated in the province of Ragusa, offers many architectural and cultural beauties. The churches, in particular, represent the beating heart of the town and tell its thousand-year history. Come and discover Monterosso Almo and you will certainly be fascinated by its beauty!
