Motta St Anastasia was built around a “volcanic neck”, a huge column of solidified magma that typically comes to light when the walls of an ancient volcanic conduit collapse. Here, we are just 35 km away from Mount Etna, and the eruption that created this “neck” is likely linked to the life of the great volcano. Today, the spectacular basalt columns that together form this single giant column are the foundation supporting the historic heart of the town and its castle. Indeed, its fortification (donjon) is the protagonist of this story.

History of Motta

Motta St Anastasia – in the Metropolitan District of Catania, Sicily – is a town of 12,000 inhabitants immersed in a typically Mediterranean landscape and surrounded by fields and crops – the basis of its agricultural economy.

The town’s social life is enlivened by numerous religious festivals and popular traditions that engage the community throughout the year. Particularly heartfelt are the celebrations dedicated to the patron saint, Saint Anastasia, in August, which attract visitors from all neighboring towns. Among the most important churches you shall visit the ancient Madonna Immacolata church and the 15th-century Main Church dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary. Near the town are also the German Military Cemetery, hosting the graves of German soldiers from World War 2, and a centuries-old olive tree.

Thanks to its proximity to Catania and Mount Etna, Motta Sant’Anastasia is an interesting destination for those wishing to explore the history, traditions, and natural beauty of eastern Sicily, in an authentic and charming setting.

The Motta Donjon

The Motta donjon, or “castle”, dates back to the 11th century (1070–1074) and was built at the behest of th Norman count Roger. In fact, it is a fortified tower and not a real castle: it has a rectangular plan, is 21 meters high, and is made entirely of lava stone. The terrace retains its intact battlements (21 rounded-headed merlons), while the building comprises three floors: military quarters on the ground floor, the elegant apartment on the first floor (where the commander lived), and the defensive section, used for combat, on the second. Various staircases connect the three floors. The castle was also owned by the Diocese of Catania for about 200 years, then in 1355 it became the residence of Count Enrico il Rosso. Having changed owner several times, in 1408 it became the property of Aloisio Sanchez and finally of the Moncada Paternò family, who retained it until the 20th century.

Visit the castle

Motta St. Anastasia donjon now belongs to the municipality and houses a museum inaugurated in 2010. This small historical museum collects artifacts from the 12th to 16th centuries and also uses multimedia systems to tell the story of Motta. In a separate section, you can also admire real medieval weapons and armors.

The castle is open every day -except Mondays- and entrance is free. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy a vast panorama that includes the Catania plain and, of course, Mount Etna. The Donjon continues to be a symbol of Motta Sant’Anastasia’s identity and an important testimony to Sicily’s medieval past.

How to get to Motta Sant’Anastasia

For those departing from Catania, the quickest way to reach Motta is to take the A19 motorway towards Palermo and exit at the Motta Sant’Anastasia junction, then follow the directions to the town. The journey generally takes less than a 20-minute drive. Those arriving from other Sicilian areas can reach the town by taking the main motorways leading to Catania (A18 or A19) and then following the dedicated signs.

It is also possible to get there by public transport: several bus lines connect Motta Sant’Anastasia with Catania and neighboring towns.
For those traveling by plane, Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is the closest; from there, you can continue by taxi, bus, or rental car to your destination. Relying on a reputable tour operator during your stay in Motta St. Anastasia will ensure you don’t have to navigate the difficult roads of Catania’s hinterland. With a dedicated driver, you shall easily decide on your travel times and stops. (photos by Camillo Bella – Etnanatura)