Sant'Angelo di Brolo
Welcome to Sant'Angelo di Brolo!
Hello everyone! Are you ready to discover the secrets of Sant'Angelo di Brolo? This beautiful municipality is located in the Metropolitan City of Messina in Sicily and is home to approximately 3023 people. But where does the name come from? Let's find out together!
Origin of the Name
Sant'Angelo di Brolo, or "Sant'Àncilu i Brolu" in Sicilian dialect, seems to derive its name from the archangel Michael, whose cult was widespread in the surrounding area. Furthermore, the term "Brolo" could indicate an area with fertile land suitable for cultivation. Let's explore the history of this place!
History
According to legend, the foundation of Sant'Angelo di Brolo dates back to the Norman campaign against the Saracens, when Roger II of Sicily defeated the enemy thanks to the intervention of the archangel Michael. Here, the count decided to build a convent entrusted to the Basilian fathers. Around this convent, the inhabited center was born which became the residence of the nobles of the area over the centuries. Today, the village is rich in architectural monuments, including the mother church with a beautiful carved portal, the church of Saints Philip and James, the abbey of St. Michael the Archangel, the castle, and the tower of Piano Croce.
Legends
But it's not just official history that enriches Sant'Angelo di Brolo, there are also some interesting legends that I will tell you about. For example, the legend of "Pietra Zita", which tells of a hidden treasure to defend the spirit of a girl promised in marriage who was kidnapped and killed by bandits. Furthermore, there is the story of the battle of Altavilla, in which count Roger invoked the help of St. Michael the Archangel to defeat the Saracens and won thanks to divine help. Finally, the legend of Castelluccio, which tells of a hidden treasure in the terrain around the mountain of the same name and which would be linked to the fate of Sicily itself.
Conclusions
Here you go, dear readers, a brief overview of Sant'Angelo di Brolo and its origins, history, and legends. If you decide to visit this municipality, I recommend not to miss the mother church with the carved portal, the church of Saints Philip and James, the abbey of St. Michael the Archangel, the castle, and the tower of Piano Croce. Also, don't forget to search for the treasure of Pietra Zita and Castelluccio! Enjoy your visit!
