Novara di Sicilia: Historic Center

Departure | Novara di Sicilia (Me)

• Length: 3 km
• Altitude: 650 m a.s.l.
• Elevation gain: 50 m
• Duration: 4h
• Difficulty: easy

Meeting point at Largo M. Bertolami, where the excursion begins. The visit to the historic center of Novara di Sicilia offers a fascinating immersion in one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, perched on the mountainside with views over ancient Tindari. This enchanting village stands out for its natural setting and characteristic medieval urban layout. The clustered small houses, narrow alleyways, decorated façades, elegant palaces, and sumptuous churches all contribute to a unique and evocative atmosphere.

The tour begins with a visit to the Riccardo Casalaina Municipal Theatre, an 18th-century building that represents an important piece of local history. Next comes the 17th-century Church of Sant’Antonio Abate and the Church of San Giorgio Megalomartire — two notable examples of religious architecture. The route also includes the 16th-century Cathedral, with its crypt beneath the apse housing the mummies of some archpriests and canons, offering a fascinating historical testimony.

Inside the Cathedral complex, the museum holds a rich collection of silverware, gold artifacts, and sacred vestments, precious both for their historical and artistic value. The visit continues at the territorial museum and the ethnoanthropological museum, which illustrate the evolution of the area — from the oldest geological finds to historical and social elements — highlighting the peculiarities and uniqueness of the region.

On request, visitors can attend a demonstration of the Maiorchino game, typical of the Carnival period. This tradition involves rolling a wheel of aged pecorino cheese — called “maiurchea” — along a predetermined route through the village streets, offering an authentic and engaging experience. Finally, a visit to the ancient “Giorginaro” water mill, still in operation, allows exploration of another piece of Novara di Sicilia’s history and tradition. This itinerary allows visitors to discover the cultural and historical richness of Novara di Sicilia, immersing themselves in the beauty of its historic center and the traditions that make this Sicilian village unique.

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