If you find yourself in Sicily during the Easter holidays, definitely head towards Mount Etna and its surroundings – near and far – to build a fascinating itinerary linked to these celebrations. Here we will give you some ideas to enjoy Holy Week around our volcano, between particular rituals and breathtaking views. And to give you a more precise idea of the route, keep in mind two important rivers: Simeto and Alcantara. Ready to take notes?
Palm Sunday in Savoca (Messina)
It is certainly not one of the most well-known Easter rites, certainly less important than Enna, Leonforte or Caltanissetta, but the sacred representation of the passion that takes place in Savoca, on the Peloritani mountains (Messina) on Palm Sunday is worth the visit.
Savoca is a town that dominates two valleys, that of river Alcantara and that of river Agrò. The flow of the rivers can be heard in the air, as can the echo of those who speak while looking out from the panoramic points of the village. The famous film The Godfather was filmed in this medieval town, which is also known for the Museum of Mummies (where the remains of local friars and noble people are preserved). One of the most famous scenes of the film was set at the Bar Vitelli, which has remained intact since then and is still open for breakfast or for any drink you like, at any time. Also worth visiting are the medieval churches of San Michele and San Nicolò, with their typical fortified-castle shapes.
During Palm Sunday, the entire town takes on the role of the figures in the sacred play: Roman soldiers, high priests, shepherds, women of Jerusalem… . The key scenes of the Passion of Christ take place in specific points of the town, and the audience of devoutees moves – together with the “actors” – along narrow streets, courtyards and small squares. Once they reach the Main Church, the final act takes place: the condemnation, the flogging and the walk towards Calvary. The public cannot go further; people can only admire from below Jesus and the soldiers as they climb a long rocky staircase to the top of the rock… where, amidst evocative music and recited passages from the Gospel, the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ takes place (PHOTO ON THE SIDE).
Easter in Adrano (Catania)
On Easter Sunday, if you want to see something original, move to the opposite side of the volcano where the Simeto river flows. In Adrano, in the early hours of Easter, the procession of the Risen Christ, the Virgin Mother and the Angel takes place. At midday, in Umberto square, the sacred gives way to the profane and you will witness the incredible “Devils Fight” (i Diavulazzi ‘i Pasqua), in an ancient representation that dates back to 1752 – originally written by Don Anselmo Laudine. The main characters are the Devils, Death, Humanity and the Archangel Michael.
The fight of the devils is then followed by the so-called “Angelicata” in which two Angels offer gifts to the Virgin and the Risen Christ, who proclaims his Mother the Queen of Heaven. It all ends with the final meeting of Jesus and Mary in front of the church of Santa Chiara.
Adrano has much to offer to those who love art and history. Proud of its medieval and baroque beauties, it invites you to visit the Norman Castle, the Palazzo Bianchi, the Saracens Bridge, the archaeological site of Mendolito and to admire the elegant façade of the Monastery of Santa Lucia. Looking for relax? Here is the large public garden of the Parco della Vittoria.
Easter Monday at the Gurne Alcantara
Monday after Easter is dedicated to open-air walks and sports. Or, if you must eat, you will decide for a pic-nic! If you want a suggestive place in the province of Catania, go to Castiglione di Sicilia. And not only because from the town, and in particular from the castle, there is a spectacular view of Etna but also because at the foot of the fortress opens the path that leads to the Gurne Alcantara.
You can get there via the provincial road SP 7 ii, less than 3 km from the exit of the town, driving west. The access to the gurne is on the right, a small road between two lava walls, barely signposted. You can drive up to a certain point and then walk to the beautiful medieval church Cuba Bizantina. From the little church, on the left, you go down a steep path until you find the river Alcantara before it makes the leap into the famous Gorges. Rapids and waterfalls make the landscape fascinating. Swimming is not recommended, precisely because of the risk of being swept away, but it is an excellent site for a family outing. (PHOTO BY GRAZIA MUSUMECI)