Castroreale (ME) - One of the most beautiful villages in Italy - Sicily
Its ancient splendor reverberates through its streets and walls, involving visitors in a genuinely unforgettable medieval atmosphere. Over the centuries, it experienced considerable economic, artistic, and cultural prosperity, passing between Arabs, Normans, Aragonese, Spanish, and Bourbons. The rich events that involved it make it today a small jewel of Sicily, which stands proud over the valleys surrounding it... #tuttitaly
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Castroreale (ME) - One of the most beautiful villages in Italy - Sicily
Perched at an impressive 394 meters above sea level, the charming town of Castroreale is a part of the esteemed circuit of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy. It proudly represented Sicily in the 'Borgo dei Borghi 2018' competition, securing a commendable second place, just after Gradara in the Marche region.
History
The history of Castroreale dates back to 1324, when King Frederick III of Aragon ordered the reconstruction of an ancient castle. The village that developed around this fortress was named Castro, meaning castle or fortress in Latin, and later became Castroreale in honor of the king's preferred residence. During the 15th century, a Jewish community settled in the area, and today, evidence of this can be seen in an arch of the former Synagogue behind the Monte di PietĂ .
Castroreale flourished as a royal city thanks to the numerous privileges granted by the Aragonese monarchs, which promoted its economic development. Over the centuries, the town was hit by earthquakes and wars, but it maintained its beauty and importance.
What to see
The churches of Castroreale are true artistic gems. In addition to the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the village boasts the Church of La Candelora, built in the 14th century, and the Church of Santa Marina, dating back to the 16th century. Priceless works of art are housed in these churches, including paintings and sculptures by artists such as Giovanni Siracusano, Raphael, Antonello Gagini, and Michelangelo Naccherino.
The museum of Castroreale, housed in the 17th-century Oratory of the Filippini Fathers, displays a rich collection of sacred art, including the marble sarcophagus of Geronimo Rosso, paintings by Antonello de Saliba, and a 14th-century Cross. On the museum's first floor, visitors can admire sacred vestments and altar cloths from the 17th and 18th centuries, along with other priceless works of art.
Conclusion
Castroreale is a place hiding artistic and historical treasures, a true hidden gem to discover on the beautiful Sicilian island.
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Castroreale (ME) - One of the most beautiful villages in Italy - Sicily
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