Petralia Soprana, the most beautiful village in Italy in 2018
Petralia Soprana, the sublime jewel set amidst the peaks of the Madonie Mountains, stands as an imposing testament to medieval magnificence, permeated by cobbled lanes and flower-filled balconies that narrate the village’s epic history.
Named the most enchanting village in Italy in 2018, Petralia Soprana welcomes wandering souls with its artistic heritage, clean air, ancient churches and culinary traditions that embrace the heart of Sicily.
Piazza del Popolo, a neo-Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 14th century
The majestic square, the centrepiece of this epic, is Piazza del Popolo, with the Town Hall, a neo-Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 14th century. A symphony of architecture that once housed the convent of Maria SS. del Carmelo, now witnessing the evolution through the Unification of Italy. Beyond the palace, the Belvedere del Carmine rises, offering a spectacular view over western Sicily all the way to Palermo.
The Church of Santa Maria di Loreto, with its Baroque façade, enchants the eye with a fusion of styles. Behind it, a secret is revealed: the Belvedere Loreto, an enchanted place where the panorama embraces the Sanctuary, the valley, the mountains and even the imposing Mount Etna, giving rise to an extraordinary sense of serenity.
The Church of Saints Peter and Paul is the scenic staircase that invites admiration
In the heart of Petralia Soprana, the ‘Piazza Duomo’ opens with the Church of ‘Santi Pietro e Paolo’, a scenic staircase that invites admiration. The facade, a portico with 18 columns, bell towers and statues of saints, reveals itself as a divine fresco. The interior, with three naves in the shape of a Latin cross, houses works of art, including the first of 33 crucifixes by Padre Umile, a witness to the passion of Christ.
The Church of the SS. Salvatore, hidden in a narrow uphill street, reveals itself as a jewel with a deceptive exterior. The elliptical plan, gilded pillars and numerous windows provide an enveloping luminosity. No less stunning is the crystal and brass chandelier, a gift from Sopranese emigrants to America.
Petralia Soprana reveals further wonders
Petralia Soprana reveals further marvels, such as Piazza S. Michele, the ‘Fontana dei Quattro Cannoli’ fountain, Piazzetta Ruggero VII and countless belvederes framing the landscape around it.
Nearby, Gangi, Geraci Siculo and Castelbuono dance in harmony with the nature of the Madonie. Trails such as Piano Cervi, Piano Battaglia and the path of the giant holly trees lead to enchanted, magical places.
