Contrada Lacco
Welcome to Contrada Lacco - a gem of Sicily
Contrada Lacco is a small village in the municipalities of Brolo and Piraino in the metropolitan city of Messina, Sicily. The village has a population of 297 and is located near the Tyrrhenian Sea coast of Sicily. In this article, we will explore the history, geography, and attractions of Contrada Lacco.
Physical geography
Contrada Lacco is situated on a ridge around the church of Madonna Addolorata. The village offers a panoramic view of the Tyrrhenian coast and Brolo. The natural beauty of Contrada Lacco is enhanced by the Brignolo peak, which stands 696 meters high and is located south of the village, and the Iannello stream, which flows west of the village.
Origins of the name
The name Contrada Lacco probably comes from the ancient Greek word λάκκος, which means "pond" or "cistern". In Sicily, the toponym Lacco is often found in the names of other places.
History
During World War II, many families from Brolo found refuge in Lacco, especially in the church of Madonna Addolorata, following the "Operation Brolo Beach" on August 11, 1943. The village was also affected by the Gulf of Patti earthquake of 1978.
Monuments and places of interest
Contrada Lacco is a small village that offers some cultural and naturalistic points of interest. The church of Madonna Addolorata is one of the most important monuments in the village. The old fountain and the municipal garden are also interesting places for tourists.
Religious architecture
The church of Madonna Addolorata, also known as "cappella del Lacco", was originally dedicated to Santa Maria de Lacu and was run by Basilian monks. This place of worship dates back to the medieval age and has been rebuilt several times after floods and earthquakes that have affected the region.
Civil architecture
The old fountain of Contrada Lacco is a structure of the Sicilian period of the eighteenth century, while the municipal garden was restored in August 2016.
Society
Religion
Contrada Lacco is part of the diocese of Patti and belongs to the parish of Maria Santissima di Lourdes in Gliaca.
Traditions and folklore
The main festival of Contrada Lacco is celebrated on the second Sunday of September and is dedicated to Madonna Addolorata. The festival, called "festa del fuoco" or "luminaria del Lacco", involves the scenic representation of a large fire that would have endangered the lives of the village inhabitants. The tradition, interrupted in the 1960s, was reintroduced in the 2000s in a new form with the use of flaming hot air balloons. During the event, it is also possible to taste typical regional products such as crushed olives and nfurnata meat. In addition, an ancient typical game of Sicily, the "dî pignateḍḍi", is organized.
Infrastructure and transport
Roads
The provincial road 143 "Contrada Lacco" runs through the entire village of Contrada Lacco.
Conclusion
Contrada Lacco is a picturesque village full of charm and history. The rich cultural tradition and the scenic beauty that the village offers make it a precious place for tourists who want to immerse themselves in the heart of Sicily.
