There are places that seem drawn by the hand of myth, etched into the landscape with a precision that defies chance. Centuripe, a small town nestled in the Sicilian hinterland, is one such place. When seen from above, it reveals a surprising shape—one that resembles a reclining human figure, with arms, legs, head, and torso stretched out across a ridge. This aerial silhouette, confirmed by drone footage and satellite maps, has captured the imagination of travelers and photographers alike. But Centuripe is far more than a curiosity on a screen: it is a living village, rich with history, authenticity, and timeless beauty.
Located in the province of Enna, yet facing the majestic Mount Etna to the east, Centuripe stands about 730 meters above sea level. The view from here is among the most breathtaking in Sicily: on clear days, Etna appears in its full glory—smoking, immense, and serene. The town overlooks the Simeto Valley and can be reached from either Catania or Enna, through scenic roads that wind through olive groves, volcanic hills, and sun-drenched landscapes.
Centuripe’s roots go deep. Inhabited since the Neolithic period, it became a flourishing center under the Siculi, and later thrived during Greek and Roman times. Known as Centuripae in the Roman era, it was famous for its refined ceramics, exported throughout the empire. Today, visitors can still admire Roman remnants: the impressive thermal complex, segments of aqueducts, underground cisterns, and a multi-arched Roman bridge that once spanned the valley.
The old town is a quiet labyrinth of narrow streets, stone houses, flowering balconies, and medieval arches. Life here moves slowly, in sync with the seasons and the land. Visiting Centuripe is not just a journey through space, but through time—a return to rhythms now rare in the modern world.
A must-see is the Regional Archaeological Museum of Centuripe, housed in an elegant 19th-century building. The collection includes amphorae, decorated vases, jewelry, and statues, among which stands a portrait bust of Emperor Augustus, considered one of the finest ever found. The museum is open most days (except Mondays) and includes bilingual information panels in Italian and English.
In the heart of town, the Mother Church of the Immaculate Conception dominates with its 18th-century Baroque façade and serene interior. From its steps, visitors can take in sweeping views of the surrounding hills and the great Etna beyond—a perfect spot for photos and quiet contemplation.
For nature lovers, Centuripe offers excellent hiking opportunities. One of the most popular trails leads up Monte Calvario, which offers the best panoramic view of the village’s unique human-like shape. This “giant” form—sometimes referred to as the “Sleeping Man of Sicily”—has gained international fame, especially on social media, where drone footage has revealed the uncanny symmetry of the town’s layout.
Throughout the year, Centuripe hosts traditional festivals that offer travelers an intimate look at local culture. Particularly evocative is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in December, featuring religious processions, music, and illuminated streets. In summer, outdoor concerts, craft fairs, and community events bring the village to life in vibrant, authentic ways.
Accommodations are easy to find, ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to rural guesthouses and restored historic homes. Local cuisine is rooted in simplicity and flavor: homemade pastas, sheep’s ricotta, wild greens, and roasted meats take center stage. Visitors should try the local version of “falsomagro”, a stuffed meat roll, and almond-based desserts made according to ancient recipes.
To visit Centuripe is to step away from the well-trodden tourist paths and discover a Sicily of stone, silence, and sky. It is to walk upon the shoulders of a giant, both literally and metaphorically, and to glimpse a civilization that has never stopped watching the volcano it calls its own.