Home » Travel Destinations » Enna Sicily – One of Italy’s Hidden Gems
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This almost hidden or forgotten city in Italy offers stunning views and I really think you can place Enna on your Travel Bucket-list. The province of Enna, almost exactly in the middle of Sicily, is definitely worth a stop if you travel to Italy.
Located in the heart of Sicily, Enna is often referred to as a “Belvedere” (panoramic viewpoint) and the “ombelico” (belly button) of the island. Unlike other Sicilian provinces, Enna does not border the sea but instead features scenic lakes as its water source.
What sets Enna apart from Sicily’s coastal cities is its tranquility, clean streets, and well-preserved historic charm. The narrow streets of the historic center exude a medieval atmosphere, while the archaeological sites showcase the city’s rich Greek and Roman heritage.
For nature lovers, Enna is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and natural reserves. The Lago di Pergusa, located nearby, is a popular spot for bird watching and offers a peaceful retreat from the city. The lake is also associated with the myth of Persephone, adding a layer of mythological intrigue to its natural beauty.
Perched on a hilltop over 900 meters above sea level, Enna offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The sight from the Castello di Lombardia, one of the largest castles in Sicily, is especially breathtaking, giving visitors a sweeping view of the fertile valleys and hills of the region.
Lombardia Castle (the city’s highest point) almost feels like it’s touching the stars. Do check their website for visiting details… (Unfortunately at the time of our visit, we could not enter.)
Enna hosts several traditional festivals and events. One of the most famous is the Easter Week processions, particularly the Good Friday procession, which is one of the most significant in Sicily. The city comes alive with solemn ceremonies and age-old traditions, attracting both locals and tourists.
Discover Sicily’s hidden gems during the Le Vie dei Tesori Festival, which celebrates often-overlooked treasures such as palaces, monasteries, churches, crypts, gardens, and museums. The 2024 edition will take place from September 14 to November 3 in 17 towns across Sicily, including Bagheria, Termini Imerese, Trapani, Mazara del Vallo, Enna, Messina, Caltanissetta, Corleone, Alcamo, Leonforte, Ragusa, Scicli, Noto, Sciacca, Carini, Palermo, and Catania. For more information and reservations, please visit: https://www.leviedeitesori.com/.
Enna is home to a variety of historical sites, showcasing its long and diverse history. Notable landmarks include:
Just a short drive from Enna is the town of Piazza Armerina, famous for the Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Roman villa is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved mosaics, which depict scenes of daily life, mythology, and hunting. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient art and Roman history.
Situated only a 37-minute drive (31.3 km) from Enna this village has amazing architecture which dates back to the 18th century.
Each year the annual Palio dei Normanni, a re-enactment of the entrance of the Norman Count Roger I into the city takes place on 12–14 August, in Piazza Armerina.
With an economy largely based on agriculture, visitors to Enna can expect to enjoy delicious, fresh food—truly a taste of the land. Sicily is famous for its culinary delights, and Enna is no exception. Local specialties include pasta dishes, fresh cheeses, and pastries. The surrounding region also produces excellent wines, which can be sampled at local wineries or restaurants.
Did you know that Enna was known as Castrogiovanni until 1926? At 931 m (3,054 ft) above sea level, Enna is also the highest Italian provincial capital.
The best time to visit Enna Sicily is between May and October. You should have lovely weather then with little chance of rain. Average temperatures are between 18 and 30 ˚C.
Enna is famous for its stunning hilltop views, medieval architecture, and its status as Sicily’s highest provincial capital, offering a serene escape from the island’s coastal tourist crowds. And then there is….
The name Sperlinga comes from the Greek “Speloca”, which means grotto or cave. The medieval Sperlinga Castle was built inside and on a sandstone rock. Towering over the village of Sperlinga, in the province of Enna.
Enna is about 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Palermo, making it a feasible day trip or a stopover if you’re exploring Sicily. The drive takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Combining a visit to Enna with Palermo can be a great idea. You can experience the bustling cultural and historical richness of Palermo and then head to Enna for a more tranquil, scenic experience. This combination allows you to enjoy both the lively urban atmosphere and the serene, elevated charm of central Sicily.
You could also combine visits to both Mondello and Cefalù, especially if you have a few days to explore. A day in Mondello could be followed by a trip to Cefalù to soak up the historic atmosphere and scenic beauty. Both locations are relatively close to each other and Palermo, making them ideal for a diverse Sicilian coastal experience.
Here’s how you could plan your visit:
Morning in Enna: Start your day early in Enna. Explore the historic sites, such as the Castello di Lombardia and the Duomo di Enna. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with local Sicilian cuisine.
Afternoon Drive to Taormina: After lunch, head towards Taormina. The drive will offer scenic views of Sicily’s interior and coastal landscapes.
Evening in Taormina: Arrive in Taormina in the afternoon or early evening. Visit the ancient Greek-Roman theater, stroll along Corso Umberto, and enjoy dinner with views of Mount Etna.
Overnight Stay (Optional): If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider staying overnight in Taormina. This will give you more time to explore the city and visit attractions like Isola Bella and the beautiful gardens.
I really like the idea to experience the culture of a town by staying in a hotel that displays this. In Enna you will find beautiful places to stay. Some with beautiful views and who can say no to starting a day like this? Obviously there are many options.
The main airports in Sicily are Palermo (PMO) and Catania (CTA).
You might like to read more about Santorini.
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