Paternò
Welcome to Paternò!
Hello everyone! Today I want to introduce you to Paternò, a town in Sicily located in the eastern part of the island, near the Etna volcano. Paternò has a population of about 44,829 inhabitants and is only 18.4 km from Catania, the provincial capital. I really like Paternò because it has an interesting history and a territory rich in natural beauty.
Let's discover the physical geography of Paternò
The territory
The city of Paternò is located in the inland area of Etna and covers an area of 144.68 km². Its territory is mostly hilly and flat, but is divided into two well-defined areas: to the east there are lava soils, while to the south there are alluvial soils along the Simeto Valley and the Catania Plain. The city itself is located in a basin delimited by the ancient prehistoric volcano, which is the place where the first inhabited nucleus arose.
Mountains and rivers
Paternò is located on the southwestern slopes of Etna, the famous active volcano that dominates the eastern part of Sicily. Paternò's territory is characterized by the presence of numerous springs and a scant presence of woods, but this is mainly due to the fact that fertile soils are used for cultivation. The Simeto River, one of the largest in Sicily, flows in the northern part of Paternese territory.
Natural beauties
The nature of Paternò is surprising. Part of Paternese territory falls within the hydrographic basin of the Simeto River and there are numerous springs, such as Monafria, Maimonide, and Currone. Additionally, in the northwest zone we find the Salinelle di Paternò, an important site of naturalistic interest that absolutely deserves a visit.
A bit of Paternò's history
Paternò's territory has a long history that dates back to the ancient Sicilian village of Hybla Gereatis, which existed until the 2nd century BC. In 1072, the Normans founded the current city, which became a feudal state of the County of Paternò with the Norman count Ruggero I of Sicily. Paternò followed the vicissitudes of Sicily and, during the History of Aragonese Sicily, was part of the Camera Reginale. Later, it became a feudal domain of the Moncada family, with whom it was elevated to the Principality of Paternò in 1565. The Moncada family had the dominion over Paternò until 1812, when feudalism was abolished in the Kingdom of Sicily.
How to get to Paternò
Paternò is easily reachable from Catania and other cities in Sicily. If you come by plane, Catania-Fontanarossa airport is only 20 km away. If you arrive by train, Paternò station is located along the railway line that connects Catania to Enna. Additionally, Paternò is well connected to the Sicilian motorway network, thanks to the presence of the A19 Palermo-Catania motorway.
What to see in Paternò
Paternò is a town rich in artistic and cultural beauty. The historic center is characterized by noble palaces and baroque churches, such as the Basilica of San Nicola and the Biscari Palace. Don't miss the visit to the Castle of Paternò, which dominates the city from a height. The castle, dating back to the 14th century, was used as a residence by the noble Paternese and now houses an important archaeological museum.
What to eat in Paternò
Paternò's cuisine is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Try dishes based on fresh fish, such as swordfish alla ghiotta, or the flavors of peasant gastronomy, such as pasta alla Norma, caponata Siciliana, and pane cunzato. Don't forget to sit down at a restaurant and enjoy Sicilian pizza, which is particularly tasty here.
Conclusion
When you visit Paternò, explore the surrounding territory and enjoy the natural beauty and colors of the Etna inland area. Taste the simple and genuine cuisine, which reflects the peasant and marine tradition of Sicily. Paternò is a city with an ancient and fascinating history, where you can discover hidden corners and unexpected artistic treasures. Come and visit us in Paternò and discover what it means to experience Sicily.
