Scicli
Southern Sicily is highlighted by several names that have built over the years a well-deserved fame. Most of the southern towns were terribly affected by the 1693 catastrophe but as following times proved, the destruction only levied mass forces that recreated what nature had decimated. The results of the restorations presently crown the southern part of the island and nourish the attraction of yearly tourists. The province of Ragusa is a major pawn on the touristic map of southern Sicily and consequently attracts innumerable tourists.
The foremost jewel of the area is named Scicli, an example of Baroque domination, as all other towns that suffered in 1693. Despite the common features, there is something special about this place, a certain feeling that brought the surname “The Baroque Jewel”.
The origins of Scicli go way back to the Copper age and the early years of the Bronze Age. Founded by Sicels, the settlement got under Arab domination in the Middle Ages, a time of agricultural expansion which turned the town into a major trade center. Afterwards it was conquered by Roger I and in the mid 19th century Scicli became part of the Kingdom of Italy.
The local culture offers an interesting display of parades with religious themes. The “Presepe” (scenes of nativity) is deployed in the Chiarafura Caves which were dug out in the tufa cliffs. The “Uomo Vivo” parade marks Easter time and what it basically represents is a prolonged procession throughout the city. The “A Maronna i Milici” is a complex festival designed for commemoration of the appearance of the Madonna holding a sword while standing on a white horse.
The area also makes the beautiful set for films like “Il regista dei matrimoni” produced by Marco Bellocchio. As southern Sicily already got us used to, this region presents a large church collection. The Baroque style St. Bartholomew, the Church of Santa Maria la Nova with its Neoclassical façade and the former local Mother Church, Church of San Matteo, are only few examples of architectural mastery. The Palazzo Fava is a large Baroque palace with late-Baroque decorations in the balconies and portal areas. The Town Hall participates in bolstering the Baroque image of Scicli.
As far as economy is concerned, Scicli is predominantly an agricultural town due to its fertile soil. Even the industry is mainly based on processing the agricultural outcome.
Scicli makes a lovely picturesque sight for each and everyone interested in discovering ancient times and modern splendor brought all together in the same place.