Between Ancient History and New Stops on the Journey

Not everyone knows its origins, but some studies suggest they are extremely ancient; in fact, it is believed that Sciacca has been inhabited since the Neolithic era.

From here, after a long period of inactivity, we resume our journeys in search of new hidden gems. Like every trip, this one has several stops, and Aragona is among them: we are welcomed by Rosario and Maurizio for a short but meaningful stop, during which they share the latest news—an excellent opportunity to strengthen the bonds created during our previous stay.

Naro: Frederick II’s “Most Brilliant City”

After a quick lunch, we continue towards Naro, a town of primary importance during the Arab period, declared by Frederick II of Swabia a “most brilliant city”.

It is a small village rich in Baroque churches and history. Walking through its alleys, we reach the castle, the fortress of the town.

The Castle of Naro and the Legend of Beltrando

As in every castle, this one also holds a legend told by its caretaker: on a full moon night, the page Beltrando, with his lute, sang of his love for Giselda. He was discovered by her jealous husband, the lord of Naro at the time. It is said the page was killed and thrown from the tower, and Lady Giselda was locked in a dark cell until her death. Her ghost is believed to still wander the castle terrace on autumn nights.

Enchanted by this story, we ourselves become for a few hours true “castle ladies” (of course without a tragic ending) and enjoy a breathtaking view from the top of the tower, from which we can see the entire surrounding area: from the artificial lake of San Giovanni—where European and international rowing competitions are often held—to Caltanissetta, and even our beloved Mount Etna.

Silent Alleys and Arrival in Sciacca

We get lost in the empty, silent alleys, where we occasionally hear the chime of church clocks. Yet this too has its charm, and we enjoy a beautiful warm February day, capturing in photos what our eyes can admire.

In the late afternoon we continue towards Sciacca, where Giovanna—a woman full of energy and beautiful smiles—welcomes us. After dinner we go to rest, ready for new experiences focused on good food and connection with nature.

Sciacca: Hospitality, Sea, and Special Encounters

Early in the morning we are treated to an excellent breakfast, giving us the right energy to start the day. We explore the center of Sciacca under a clear sky and an amazing blue horizon. The warmth of the Sicilian sun returns.

You never truly know a destination: once again, we discover charming corners and meet special people. Elderly locals playing cards in a small public garden tell us stories, pose for photos, and smile warmly, proud of their beloved Sciacca.

Seaside Lunch and Mediterranean Atmosphere

A lunch awaits us at the harbor with Giovanna and Angela, in a seaside restaurant terrace where, in addition to excellent fish dishes, we enjoy a stunning view and the scents and sounds of the sea: our senses are completely fulfilled.

The Baglio, Granita, and Sicilian Tradition

In the afternoon we reach Giovanna’s baglio for a new experience with chef Giovanni. In the open countryside, surrounded by olive trees and lemon trees, we gather around a well set up for preparing traditional Sicilian granita.

We pick lemons directly from the trees, squeeze them, and the chef shows us the old method of preparation, replacing sugar with honey and using a cooling technique with a metal container. Between laughter, jokes, and photos—it quickly becomes a celebration. After about an hour, we finally taste excellent lemon granita with sesame breadsticks and brioche.

Fireplace, Crochet, and Rural Life

At dusk we move inside the baglio and sit by the wood stove, where Giovanna offers us homemade biscuits. Then comes a crochet workshop: we go back in time, Sicilian women gathered around the fire, chatting and creating small handmade works to take home.

Yoga, Cooking, and Authentic Flavors

After breakfast we return to the baglio: first a walk in nature and a yoga session with instructor Agata. Then it’s time to cook: aprons on, rolling pins ready, and we start kneading dough.

Chef Gianluca guides us in preparing a wonderful meal: homemade bread and different types of pasta (busiate, orecchiette, and tagliatelle), served with a sauce of anchovies, wild fennel, tomato, almonds, and secret ingredients.

For dessert we prepare ricotta and chocolate chip ravioli, known in other parts of Sicily as “cassatelle”.

One Last Story and the Return Home

During lunch outdoors, surrounded by nature and fresh air, we once again feel at home. Giovanna tells us a story from the past: the baglio once housed a large farming family, and the children—who had never left the place until the age of eighteen—believed it was the edge of the world.

Despite Sciacca and its people once again giving us beautiful days, it is time for us islanders to return home. With hearts full of joy, we say goodbye to our new friends, with whom we will surely continue many more experiences together.

We are ready for a new experience … and you?