Donnalucata
Welcome to Donnalucata: a brief introduction
Hello everyone and welcome to Donnalucata, a small fishing village in Scicli, with a population of about 3172 people. This beautiful village is located approximately 8 kilometers from the town of Scicli and belongs to the free municipal consortium of Ragusa. Donnalucata has many wonderful things to offer and we are here to discover everything about it together!
Origins of the name
The name Donnalucata derives from the source of the hours, called "ʿayn al-awqāt" in Arabic. The source flowed five times a day, just during Muslim prayers, and its Latinized name became Donnalucata. It was said that the source only flowed during low tide at sunset, which could justify the legend of a miracle that occurred in the past. Some believe that the source is still present today in the "Ugghie", freshwater springs on the Micenci beach.
History
Donnalucata has a very ancient history, dating back to ancient Greece, where there was a sacred fountain to Ceres, the goddess of fertility and harvest. The Phoenicians also knew this place and held a slave market there. In the Middle Ages, Donnalucata was contested between Normans and Saracens, and in 1091 there was a historic victory of the Normans led by Count Ruggero I of Sicily against the troops of Emir Bell Khan. Tradition tells the story of an intervention by the Madonna delle Milizie, the mother of Jesus, who would have helped the Normans in battle.
Golden beaches and main activities
Donnalucata is famous for its wide golden sand beaches, which attract thousands of tourists in summer. In addition to tourism, the main activity of the village is fishing, followed by greenhouse agriculture that produces high-quality vegetables and flowers.
What to see
In addition to the beautiful beaches, Donnalucata offers many interesting attractions to visit. The Sanctuary of Maria SS delle Milizie, built in the place where the alleged miracle of 1091 occurred, is an attraction that attracts many people looking for spirituality. The coastal Tower, built in the same period as the Sanctuary, was used for defense against the Saracens and offers a spectacular view of the ocean. Finally, the Church of the Madonna Assunta, built in the eighteenth century, is worth a visit to admire its precious paintings.
Local cuisine
Donnalucata is famous for its excellent cuisine based on fresh fish, which can be enjoyed in its restaurants and trattorias. Among the typical local dishes are pasta with sardines, fish couscous, and fish soup.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Donnalucata is a beautiful village that offers many interesting attractions and a wonderful beach. Its ancient history, local cuisine, and the kindness of its inhabitants make it a perfect place to spend holidays.
