Montalbano Elicona - Sicily - Silent Beauty

#montalbanoelicona #sicily #borghiditalia
Montalbano Elicona is a little town located at 920 meters of altitude on Nebrodi mountains, in Messina district. In 2015 it has been nominated as the Best Italian Borough, “Borgo dei Borghi”, a honor that Montalbano Elicona undoubtedly deserves.

Although human presence in the site has been ascertained since the greek period, witnesses of Montalbano Elicona as a documented entity date in the middle age. The Castle, the main attraction, is a typical example of Suevian defensive fortification erected on pre-existing structures (maybe Arabic). Federico II of Aragon converted the fortress in a royal residence giving to the building the actual aspect. A part from history, the site has a great fascination, especially early in the morning, with an unbelievable landscape all around. In a clean day, the view runs northward till the Thyrrenean coast of Sicily and Aeolian Islands.

Walking along the alleys of Montalbano Elicona is a relaxing and charming experience with old noble buildings and churches, sunny squares and silent corners full of mystery. Far from crowded destinations, you will appreciate the sound of your steps on the ancient stone ground, breathing the atmosphere of middle age town. Wonderful is the sunset from the terrace on the top of the hill. Even the wind turbins on the ridges in front of you are perfectly inserted in to the panorama giving a surreal touch to the landscape.

There are several artistic attractions to discover in the city and a delicious gastronomical tradition to taste. Moreover surrounding countryside offers to Nature fans some really exciting locations for excursions (like the “Megaliti dell’Argimusco” or Malabotta forest). So, even if a one day visit could be enough, I strictly suggest to overnight in Montalbano Elicona (there are several various hotel accomodation available). You will have time to explore the area and to feel the vibes of the town early in the morning and during its enchanting silent night.

Filmed almost entirely with a Canon Legria, excepted for some brief footage from an Eken H8R coupled with a gimbal, this film has been edited with Cyberlink PowerDirector suite 5.
Photos are by Francesca Sparatore and her Nikon D3100.

The track “In a Moment “ is by Lee Rosevere and is licensed on Free Music Archive.

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