Geraci Siculo: a corner of paradise in the Madonie Park

Strolling through small villages that proudly preserve their traditions is the best way to get closer to the local culture. In Geraci Siculo, the air one breathes through the streets of the centre smells of history and shows the authentic and hidden face of Sicily, reflected in the historic churches and inhabitants.

The destination is far from mass tourism, offering silence and peacefulness that are ideal for sharing the state of serenity provided by the surrounding nature. Trails in the Madonie Park are complemented by a plunge into history, with an eye on more famous and popular destinations and the convenience of reaching all the attractions that Sicily has to offer.

The village of Geraci Siculo has always lived mainly on sheep farming, agriculture and handicrafts. These activities still characterise the local economy and constitute the strengths and attractions of the area. The craft workshops that enliven the alleys of the centre present everything a tourist could wish for: woodwork, wrought iron work and embroidery.

If your holiday in Sicily includes stops in the most beautiful villages in Italy, you cannot miss the opportunity to discover one of the hidden faces of this beautiful region. The artistic heritage present in Geraci Siculo derives from the various dominations it has undergone and gives the area a special charm.

The Ventimiglia Castle was a military fortress, built in a strategic position on top of a cliff. Today, the walls and towers remain, giving a perfect idea of how imposing the structure was. The climb to reach it is challenging, but from here you will enjoy a breathtaking panorama that will repay all the effort. You will also have the honour of passing through the Porta Baciamano, the point used by vassals to swear allegiance to the lord of the castle by kneeling and kissing his hand. St Stephen's Church is rich in Baroque stucco work and contains a painting of the Martyrdom of St Stephen, but one of its highlights is the bell tower.

The Convent houses the MUSeBarch: it is a museum dedicated to the village of Geraci Siculo and the entire surrounding territory. Inside you will find documents and reconstructions of ancient domestic environments, for a total historical immersion. For a spectacular view, you must make a stop at the Salto del Ventimiglia: it is a panoramic glass overlook from which you can admire the valley as far as the foot of Mount Etna. It can be reached through a narrow alleyway near the municipal library.

Another attraction is Falconry: the practice of breeding and training falcons was introduced by Frederick II and remains alive today for uses other than the original ones. Today, they find use as sparrow scarecrows or in civil and military aviation, when there is a need to clear runways of birds.

Your stay in Sicily gives you the opportunity to relax, have fun and visit enchanting places. Inland, Geraci Siculo is certainly a starting point for excursions through lush forests and scenic trails. The Madonie Park is ideal for those who love trekking and want to spend days in the open air and evenings enjoying the local cuisine. It is an area of great natural interest for the tree species it hosts and is organised with several equipped areas and activities that can also be enjoyed with the family. Here you can spot golden eagles, foxes and other wild animals.

The festivals and events organised throughout the year are opportunities to taste traditional dishes and enrich your holiday with pleasant moments. In the first week of August, the Giostra dei Ventimiglia takes place, featuring parades in period costumes through the village streets with flag-wavers, fire-eaters and various games. The organisation includes music, medieval plays, horse shows, cultural meetings and the display of typical products in medieval tents.

The Shepherds' Cavalcade (Carvaccata di Vistiamara) takes place every seven years on the third Sunday in July. It is a secular event with a pastoral character and the next event will take place in 2025. On this occasion, it is the shepherds who parade to the Holy Trinity camp, carrying typical dairy products from the region.

The Transhumance Festival, on the other hand, takes place on the third Sunday in May and sees the movement of the herds towards the high mountain pastures. This is an ancient tradition that fascinates tourists and brings to the fore culinary products and recreational activities involving the entire community. The aim is to valorise the shepherds' typical rituals and create moments that are a great attraction from a tourist point of view.