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Symbols of traditional Sicily are displayed all over the island. The narrow streets, the small squares, the traditional trattoria undertaken by Italian families join the local legacy of ancient times.

The southern province of Caltanissetta is the hostess of the picturesque town of Gela that defines a rare site which enables a large variety of landscapes over the island. Being located along a gulf that faces the Mediterranean, covering the distance between Eastern Capo Scaramia and Western Licata, the site gains even more curious outlooks.

The rich history of the area begins in 689-688 BC when the city was founded by the Rhodium- Cretan colonies. Founded 45 years after the emergence of Syracuse and 100 years prior to the birth of Agrigento, Gela met a gradual economic and social expansion. Carthaginians conquered and destroyed Agrigento in 406. This made up the predecessor event of Gela’s turning into ruins. The Roman, Byzantine and mediaeval ages brought about a small Roman settlement followed by the Byzantine minor center and the title of “City of Columns”. Subsequently, the name changed into Terranova and Terranova di Siclia that met their end in 1927 when the city regained the name Gela.

The surroundings are equally important as the site sheltered by Gela. Acate, Butera, Caltagirone, Mazzarino, Niscemi and notorious sites of Agrigento and Ragusa give forth an attractive south-western frame. The archaeological subsidies create an impressive touristic flux, joined by the marvelous local cuisine. The plain around Gela is utterly fertile and crossed by Gela, Maroglio and Salso rivers that make up beautiful scenery.

The archaeological discoveries determined initial researchers to confuse Gela with Licata. Studies subsequently concluded the real topography of the site. In present, scholars still gather information in order to complete archaeological knowledge.

Obviously, the city is quite a challenge that can be taken on by the study of available discoveries. The Regional Archaeological Museum offers specific archaic pieces. Capo Soprano is the venue of great archaeological reminisces. The Greek temples are definitely worthy of all attention. The Cathedral of Holy Virgin Assunta (rebuilt during 1766- 1794; an edifice that incorporates elements of the former construction, the Church of Madonna della Platea), Doric and Ionic columns enrich the viewers who wish to catch a glimpse of old cultures.

The Middle Age left its marks by means of the Church St. Francisk (the 17th century), the Church of St. Giuseppe (15th century) and a highly important edifice that often is perceived as the city’s emblem, the Castelluccio di Gela (Small Castle of Gela). It is located 10km away from the city and dates from the early 13th century. The Natural Reserve of Biviere di Gela is one of few of its Sicilian kind and they all are equally impressive.

Similar to other Sicilian cities, Gela is proud of its unique cuisine. All elements put together create a powerful attraction that consequently gets rewarded with knowledge, cultural, artistic and gastronomic satisfaction.