Surroundings

The ancient village of Novara di Sicilia is a winner of The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy. 

Legend has it that the village, built at the point where the Nebrodi mountains meet the Peloritani range, was inhabited by the Cyclopes and that the town was only later developed at the behest of the Saracens, who built a castle there. It was mainly develioped in the heart of the Middle Ages and it has a long history linked to the Arabs, the Normans, and the Cistercians. In fact, near the village are the ruins of the former Cistercian monastery of Sicily, whose foundation dates back to 1137.

The village is really unique alternating ancient alleys, steps and corners of rare scenic beauty, where you can still feel the authenticity of the ancient countries once and true Sicilian life, where time seems to stand still, thus creating a unique place where you can completely retreat.

The Festival of Saint Anthony Abbot is celebrated in January, with a parade of horses and livestock and a “Blessing of the Animals” in the bell tower.

Carnival includes the “Gioco of the Maiorchino”, where wheels of maiurchèa cheese are rolled along a predetermined route.

Then there is the Carnival of the Children and a masked ball which takes place in the recently renovated Communal Theatre. Holy Week sees the  silent procession of the Confraternite.

In July there is a Flower Festival and the “Climbing of the Rocca Salvatesta”, which is seen as a test of character.

The Festa dell'Assunta is the largest annual event in the town, attracting thousands of visitors, running from July 31 to August 15, when a procession is held with a statue of the Virgin, illuminated with 100s of candles, is carried through the streets on the shoulders 30 men. The event is followed by a firework display.

In August there's an exhibition held of vestments, church furnishings, handicrafts, paintings, photographs and local handicraft.

A “Living Manger” is displayed during the Christmas period.