Palazzolo Acreide
The Charm of Palazzolo Acreide: an Ancient Baroque City
If you are looking for a destination that offers a perfect mix of art, culture, and history, Palazzolo Acreide is the ideal place. Located on the mountains of Sicily, this small town of just over 8,000 inhabitants is a true Baroque gem with ancient roots.
The Origin of Palazzolo Acreide's Name
One of the first aspects to know is the origin of Palazzolo Acreide's name: it has two completely different roots. On one hand, it connects to Ancient Greek and means "summit, peak, extremity" or "castle or citadel that dominates a city" and was Latinized to Acrae. Later, scholars decided to call it Acreide to give more prestige to the town.
On the other hand, the name Palazzolo Acreide originates from the Latin "Palatium" and the suffix "-olum," becoming "Palatiolum." What is now called Palazzolo was once one of the highest areas of the municipality and was also called by the same name.
Physical Geography of Palazzolo Acreide
If you're wondering where Palazzolo Acreide is located, you should know that it is 44 kilometers from Syracuse, 39 kilometers from Ragusa, and 91 kilometers from Catania. Its geographic location, in the western part of the province of Syracuse, makes it a perfect place to admire the Iblei Mountains and the surrounding nature.
The History of Palazzolo Acreide
Palazzolo Acreide has a millenary history that begins with the Syracusan colonization in 664 BC. The testimonies of the ancient period include an important theatrical structure and a complex of buildings next to the Greek-Roman agora. The decumanus, one of the urban streets, has preserved its pavement.
Baron Gabriele Judica di Baulì, author of numerous archaeological researches, has contributed to bring out the beauty of Palazzolo Acreide. Very interesting is the necropolis of the "Pinita," a complex of tombs dug along a steep limestone wall, very similar to the majestic tombs of Pantalica, and whose population buried their deceased. The cave of "Sparno" and some cave-tombs near Baulì represent other places of particular interest in the area.
The Greek city was located on the hill of Mount Acremonte, where today there is an Aphrodision ("Heraion"?) and other religious buildings mentioned in the Kaibel 217 inscription.
Palazzolo Acreide and Its Artistic Heritage
Palazzolo Acreide is not only known for its ancient history, but also for its Baroque artistic heritage. In the historic center, you can admire the beauties of different churches, such as the Church of San Paolo and the Basilica of San Sebastiano, and squares like Piazza del Popolo, a meeting point between the locals and Italian and foreign tourists.
Numerous buildings were built during the 18th century in the typical Baroque style with wrought-iron balconies, imposing churches, and triumphal arches. Do not miss the Church of San Michele, a perfect example of Sicilian Baroque architecture. The historic center of Palazzolo Acreide has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Perfect Tourism for Everyone
Palazzolo Acreide is a perfect destination for tourists of all ages, from families with children to couples in search of a romantic getaway. The town has a strategic location that allows discovering the beauties of eastern Sicily. It is located a few kilometers from the sea and a few hours away from attractions like Noto, Modica, and Scicli.
The town also hosts numerous events including the Kolymbetra, a festival inspired by Ancient Greece with swimming competitions, swordsmen, athletes and street artists.
In conclusion, Palazzolo Acreide is a true treasure of Sicilian history and art. Those who travel in search of culture and beauty cannot help but visit this authentic Baroque gem with ancient roots.
