Discover the unknown Sicily
Usually we go where everybody else goes, to see everything everybody else sees. Eventhough we look for something genuine, we all end up in the same places. Nowadays we choose our destinations based on the level of “instagramability”; renowned beaches, high-end cities, stylish drinks and food, panoramic views seen and reviewed. But what about a small village with not too many inhabitants, stunning churches, calming panoramic views and ancient traditions, isn’t it worth to be visited, photographed and told about?
The beauty of architecture
In the province of Siracusa there are multiple small villages hidden in the countryside and up in the hills; Canicattini Bagni, Palazzolo Acreide, Giarratana, Ferla, Cassaro…the list is long. One of these less known gems is Buscemi, situated on a hilltop in the middle of the Iblei mountains. As most of the sites in the Val di Noto, Buscemi was destroyed by the earthquake in 1693, but was later rebuilt in late baroque style.
The first thing you will notice entering this village is the peace and quiet. Then, the beauty of history; the ruin of a Medieval castle followed by an ancient majestic water fountain will give you a warm welcoming. Strolling around you will be amazed by the architecture of the churches; Sant’Antonio with the checkered piazza (square) in front, the mother church Maria Santissima made of white limestone, the town hall and former church of San Giacomo. But the most important one is the Sanctuary of Madonna del Bosco. The patron “Madonna del Bosco” is celebrated the last Sunday of August with a procession through the narrow streets, with final bell ringings, confetti and big fireworks. Not to miss!
Get to now the past and the present
If you want to dig deeper into the history of Buscemi they also have an interesting Ecomuseum, being a paese museo (lit. museum village). They bring you on a guided tour where you explore every corner of the village, visiting 12 well preserved sites, where every detail has been put back in the right place to show where and how the inhabitants worked and lived hundreds of years ago. Exploring the past you will also discover the present, getting closer to the people living far from the popular and caotic “tourist traps”.
Buscemi is a simple and genuine village with the essential things you need in life. Included one of the best panoramic views of Sicily, seen from the Villa Comunale. You won’t find crowded streets or fancy cocktail bars, VIP’s or shopping streets. But one thing is sure – you’ll leave more relaxed then ever and you can tell your friends about a magical place, hidden on a hill top in Sicily, that not many people know about.
Left: Mother Church of Natività di Maria Santissima
Up: Church of Sant’Antonio
Down: Panoramic view from Villa Comunale
