Belvedere
Hi there! Today I will talk to you about the Belvedere fraction, located about 7 km west of Syracuse, on the highest part of the Syracuse plateau. About 7,000 people live here, called "belvederesi", including also Syracusans who have moved from the city, and the population is constantly increasing thanks to the recent construction of shops and large stores in the area north of the fraction, forming the "Belvedere commercial park". Although it is part of the Melilli territory, Belvedere is known for the beautiful panorama it offers of Syracuse, so much so that it is sometimes called Belvedere of Syracuse.
History
The Belvedere fraction was founded in 1626 by a lord named , but already in the seventeenth century the Royal Navy installed a signaling point with flags and lights to connect the ports of Augusta and Syracuse, also used during the Second World War, and from which derives the name of the alley that connects the lower part of the fraction to the plateau. The semaphore was located on the highest part of the hill, called "u semàfuru" in Sicilian. In addition, on the hill stands the Eurialo castle, the main monument of the fraction.
In the early 2000s a citizens' committee arose that advocates for administrative autonomy, as Cassibile and Fontane Bianche also still request today.
The fraction
Monuments and places of interest
The Eurialo castle was erected by Dionisio I of Syracuse on the convergence point of the two great walls that closed the terrace of Epipoli, to defend a road that put Syracuse in communication with its fields and the interior. It is a grandiose work, composed of a central mast and four circular angular towers, equipped with an impressive defensive system and a water system that provided a well for collecting rainwater. Also worth visiting are the church of San Giuseppe and the cemetery near the so-called "Monte", where the living nativity scene takes place during the Christmas period.
Activities and events
Belvedere also offers numerous activities and events, such as the celebration of San Giuseppe, patron saint of the fraction, the feast of Santa Lucia and the feast of the Madonna del Carmelo. In addition, every year in mid-August, the melon festival takes place, during which you can taste the best local fruits.
Daily life
Belvedere is a very lively fraction, with numerous commercial activities and beach resorts where you can spend hot summer days. In addition, the fraction has a primary and a secondary school, a medical clinic and numerous sports activities.
Conclusions
Belvedere is a suggestive fraction, with a breathtaking panorama and numerous activities and events. The Eurialo castle is a must-visit for history lovers, while the Belvedere commercial park offers numerous shopping opportunities. If you are looking for a peaceful place, but also lively and full of activities, Belvedere is the right place for you!
