sicily holidays | sicily vacation | hotels in sicily

The archaeological site of Pantalica paralyzes the current view by enabling a trip back to the Bronze Age. Pantalica, or even more accurately, the ancient town of Hybla, enjoys only few but complex remnants of its origins. The main theory is that the destruction of the town corresponds to the Syracusans, prior to the foundation of Akrai in 664 BC.

Pantalica met a new type of life when the Byzantines focused on this area. Their contributions were various, amongst which the small communities in rock-hewn dwellings. An historic theory sights the possibility of the subsequent inhabitation by the Arabs and Normans, consequently and dramatically ending the cycle with complete abandon of the town.

The natural environment of Pantalica is quite amazing. The two rivers, Anapo and Calcinara add up to the inestimable value of this well hidden part of Sicily. Accessing the site shouldn’t be a difficult step. Ferla and Sortino, the two access ways, offer extraordinary views, especially the later which enables a splendid sight of the necropolis. By choosing Ferla, one should stop by Sella di Filiporto which is the former gateway that actually indulges the visitor in a gathering of fortification’s remnants.

Following this path, one will gain access to the Filiporto necropolis and also a Byzantine settlement with rock-hewn dwellings. This site makes up another testimonial of cross-cultural influences that ancient peoples preferred while building mechanisms and creating culture. Remnants of Mycenaean influences are thought to have been brought in by Mycenaean workers, under the prince’s directions.

Choosing Sortino as access may provide a happy occasion for swimmers to try on the pool at the bottom of the canyon. It’s a winning situation no matter the access choice.

Calcinara and Anapo define two exquisite natural elements that both in ancient and contemporary times made/ make up a unique view. The Anapo valley once hosted the Syracuse- Ragusa- Vizzini railway and that is one asset that is not allowed to be ignored. Pantalica’s notoriety basically stands on the various range of necropolis that in a subtle manner attract all spectators’ views. The Rocky Necropolis is quite an arousing archaeological element that cannot fail in pulling in the curious.

Not only archaeology creates the amazement, but also the natural elements of which some are rather rare. The deep canyons created proper conditions for white and black poplars, willows, oleanders, beautiful wild orchids to emerge. Sage, thyme, giant fennel, euphorbia, thorny broom, they all create the Mediterranean insight that adds up to the heterogeneousness of the local flora. The rare Oriental plan-tree confirms the diversity.

Towns such as Ferla and Sortino offer unique views over the surrounding plateaus and the testimonials of water erosion. None of the offerings of this part of Sicily is less important and they all create a curiosity- enticing frame.