Piraino
Welcome to Piraino, a medieval town on the Sicilian coast
If you're looking for an authentic experience in Sicily, Piraino is the perfect place for you. This town of 3,780 inhabitants located on the coast of the metropolitan city of Messina is rich in history and culture, reflected in its typically medieval structure and religious buildings.
Discover the physical geography of Piraino
Piraino is located on a ridge that slopes sharply towards the sea, between the Promontory of Capo d'Orlando and Capo Calavà. Its panoramic position offers breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Sicilian coast.
A brief history of Piraino
Piraino has a long history, dating back to the 6th century BC during the History of Greek Sicily. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various feudal families, including the Lanza, Denti, and Averna.
In 1246, Emperor Frederick II of Swabia granted the town to the Lancia family, Marquess of Vasto and Monferrato, thanks to a marriage with Bianca Lancia. During the History of Angevin Sicily, the Lancia family fought in defense of the Swabian family and, for this reason, had all their property confiscated, which they regained only after the Sicilian Vespers in 1282.
Piraino also suffered attacks by the Arabs, including one in 1544 led by the Arab pirate Khayr al-Din Barbarossa, which caused the death of the Orthodox archpriest Giovanni Maria Scolarici, still remembered in the town during the summer period with a reenactment in period costumes.
Discover the medieval beauty of Piraino
If you want to fully immerse yourself in the history of Piraino, we recommend visiting its typically medieval religious buildings, such as the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, and the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi.
Furthermore, the town still preserves its typically medieval structure, with narrow and winding streets, arches, and alleys leading to central squares, surrounded by stone buildings.
Events and traditions in Piraino
Piraino is famous for its religious festivals and traditions, such as the reenactment of the Saracen attack by Barbarossa in 1544. During the summer period, the town comes alive with festivals, village fairs, and folkloric performances.
What to eat in Piraino
Piraino is also a place to taste Sicilian cuisine. Here you will find typical dishes such as pasta with sardines, Sicilian cannoli, and the famous arancini. Moreover, the town is surrounded by olive groves, citrus orchards, and vineyards that produce high-quality olive oil, lemons, oranges and wine.
Conclusion
Piraino is an unforgettable experience that will take you back in time, among the medieval alleys of the town and its folkloric traditions. A perfect place to discover the real Sicily and immerse yourself in its history and culture.
