Enna, located in the heart of Sicily, is a unique city. Perched on a plateau 931 metres above sea level, it is the highest city in Italy, offering breathtaking views and an evocative atmosphere. But Enna is not only a belvedere: its millenary history, its artistic and cultural heritage, and its authentic traditions make it an unmissable destination for those who wish to discover the truest Sicily. Here are 5 reasons to visit Enna:
1. Immersing oneself in millennial history
Enna, also known as the ‘navel of Sicily’ due to its central location, boasts a millennial history dating back to prehistoric times. Evidence of its glorious past is scattered throughout the territory.
- The Castle of Lombardy: One of the most impressive medieval fortresses in Italy, with its 20 towers and walls stretching over 2 km. The castle, built by the Normans in the 12th century on the remains of an earlier Arab fortification, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city and surrounding countryside. Inside , you can visit the Piazza d’Armi, the Pisan Tower and the Archaeological Museum.
- The Tower of Frederick II: An ancient watchtower built in the 13th century at the behest of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia. The octagonal tower is an example of medieval military architecture and offers an impressive view of the city.
- The Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral in Catalan-Gothic style, built in the 14th century. The cathedral houses valuable works of art inside, including the 16th century inlaid wooden choir and the Chapel of the Sacrament, decorated with polychrome marble.
- The Medieval Quarter: A maze of alleys and small squares that preserves the atmosphere of ancient Enna. Here you can admire noble palaces, churches and fountains, evidence of the city ‘s rich history.
2. Admiring breathtaking views
Enna ‘s elevated position offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with its undulating hills, cultivated fields and lush forests.
- The Rock of Ceres : A rocky promontory overlooking the city, dedicated to the goddess Ceres, protector of the harvest and fertility. From the Rocca you can enjoy a 360 degree view of central Sicily, from the Madonie Mountains toMount Etna, a panorama that sweeps from the mountains to the sea, offering unforgettable emotions .
- The Belvedere of Enna Alta: Located in the heart of the historic centre, it offers a suggestive view of the valley below and the surrounding mountains. It is the ideal place to watch the sunset and be enchanted by the beauty of the Enna landscape .
- The Urban Mountain Park: A green area of great natural and scenic interest, which extends to the slopes of the city. The park offers numerous paths for walking and trekking, surrounded by nature and with panoramic views of the city.
3. Discovering a unique artistic and cultural heritage
Enna is not only a city rich in history, but also an important cultural centre.
- The Archaeological Museum: Housed inside the Castle of Lombardy, it holds a vast collection of artefacts from excavations carried out in the Enna area, evidence of the civilisations that have succeeded one another over the centuries, from the Sicans to the Romans. Among the most important pieces are statues of the goddesses Demeter and Persephone, from the sanctuary of Demeter, and Bronze Age grave goods.
- The Garibaldi Theatre: Built in the 19th century, it is one of the most beautiful theatres in Sicily, with its elegant neoclassical architecture and perfect acoustics. The theatre hosts a rich season of performances, including operas, concerts and plays.
- The Alessi Museum: Dedicated to the Enna goldsmith Luigi Maria Alessi, the museum displays a collection of sacred art and silverware, testimony to the craftsmanship of local artisans.
- The Municipal Library: Located in the historical centre, it holds a valuable library heritage, with manuscripts and incunabula of great value.
Enna also hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including:
- The International Folklore Festival: Held every summer, it attracts folklore groups from all over the world, offering a spectacle of colours, music and traditional dances.
- Holy Week: One of the most evocative in Sicily, with processions , sacred representations and traditional rites involving the entire community.
4. Savouring the authentic flavours of Enna cuisine
Enna cuisine is simple and genuine, based on local products and traditional recipes handed down from generation to generation. Among the typical dishes not to be missed are:
- Pasta ‘ncaciata: A kind of baked lasagna, prepared with layers of fresh pasta, meatsauce, fried aubergines, hard-boiled eggs and pecorino cheese. A rich and tasty dish, perfect for special occasions .
- Macaroni in sweet and sour sauce: An original and tasty first course made with meat sauce, fried aubergines, sugar and cinnamon. The contrast between sweet and salty creates a unique explosion of flavours.
- Falsomagro: An elaborate and rich second course, typical of the festive season. It is a beef roulade stuffed with boiled eggs, cheese, salami, ham and other delicacies, baked or stewed.
- Frascatula: A polenta made of maize or wheat flour, often accompanied by wild fennel or other seasonings. A simple but hearty dish, typical of peasant tradition.
- Buccellati: Typical sweets of the Christmas period, shaped like a doughnut or a crescent moon, filled with dried figs, almonds, walnuts, chocolate and spices.
- Rice gateau all ‘ ennese: A spoon dessert made of rice, milk, sugar, eggs and cinnamon, baked in the oven. A real treat for the palate, perfect to end a meal on a sweet note.
5. Experience the unique atmosphere of Holy Week
HolyWeek in Enna is one of the most evocative in Sicily. The processions, sacred representations and traditional rituals that take place during this week create a unique and enthralling atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Some of the most important events include:
- The Good Friday procession: With the participation of over 2.000 hooded friars, it is a moment of great emotional and spiritual intensity.
- The Easter Sunday procession : Celebrates the resurrection of Christ with a great popular feast, full of colour and joy.
Where to stay in Enna
Enna offers various accommodation options, suitable for all needs and budgets.
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Luxury:
- Hotel Federico II: Located in the heart of Enna Alta, it offers elegant and comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the city.
- Relais Santa Lucia: Historical residence with tastefully furnished rooms and a gourmet restaurant.
- Hotel Villa Giulia: Surrounded by a centuries-old park, it offers spacious rooms and an outdoor pool.
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Medium band:
- BB La Casa sulla Rocca: Located a few steps from the Castle of Lombardy, offers cosy rooms and a hearty breakfast based on local products.
- Hotel Bristol: Centrally located, it offers comfortable rooms and good value for money.
- BB Le Terrazze di Enna: Located in a historic building, it offers rooms with panoramic views and a sun terrace.
- Economical:
- Baglio PollicariniAgritourism: Nestled in the Enna countryside, it offers rustic rooms and typical cuisine based on farm produce.
- Hotel Belvedere: Centrally located, it offers simple but comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
- YouthHostel: Ideal solution for travellers on a budget, offering accommodation in shared rooms and a convivial atmosphere.
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Where to eat in Enna
Enna boasts a good selection of restaurants and trattorias where you can enjoy typical local cuisine.
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High band:
- Osteria del Duomo: Located a few steps from the Cathedral, offers creative cuisine that reinterprets traditional dishes from Enna.
- Restaurant Il Normanno: Elegant restaurant with a panoramic view, specialising in meat dishes and fresh fish.
- La PergolaRestaurant: Located in an old palace, it offers fine cuisine and a wide selection of Sicilian wines.
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Medium band:
- La RusticaRestaurant: Located in the historic centre, it offers traditional dishes from Enna prepared with fresh , seasonal ingredients.
- Trattoria Da Peppe: A cosy, family-run restaurant, it offers home-style, genuine cuisine, with specialities such as pasta alla Norma and rice crispelle .
- Pizzeria Il Campanile: Offers a wide variety of pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, as well as starters and first courses.
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Economical:
- La Fontana: Located near the Rocca di Cerere, it offers pizzas, sandwiches and other quick dishes at affordable prices.
- Rosticceria Il Ghiottone: Ideal for a quick snack or take-away lunch, offers a variety of Sicilian rotisserie, such as arancini, calzoni and panelle.
- Bar Sport: A classic Italian bar where you can enjoy a coffee, an aperitif or a sandwich at modest prices.
How to get to Enna
Enna is easily accessible from the main Sicilian cities:
- From Palermo: Highway A19 Palermo-Catania, exit Enna (about 130 km).
- From Catania: Highway A19 Palermo-Catania, exit Enna (about 70 km).
- From Messina: A20 Messina-Palermo motorway, exit Rocca di Capri Leone, then follow signs for Enna (about 150 km).
Enna, the highest city in Italy, is a destination that will surprise and fascinate every visitor. With its thousand-year history, its breathtaking views, its artistic and cultural heritage and its genuine cuisine, Enna is a place where time seems to stand still, an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the heart of Sicily.
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