To know the history of Balestrate, we must take a step back in time almost a thousand years: we are in the fourteenth century, when Frederick II of Aragon took possession of this coastal stretch, bringing up a decree from the beginning of the century, which attributed to the king all the lands that could be included in the path taken by an arrow, hypothetically shot from a crossbow located near the San Cataldo river, during a battle.
These mysterious origins perhaps manage to explain at least a little the charm of the village and so, here's what to see in Balestrate, between history and nature, art and architecture, without forgetting a stop at the table!
What to see in Balestrate
Among the things to see in Balestrate, we invite you from Belvedere, where it will be possible to stretch your gaze into the depths of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The Belvedere is equipped with benches for resting and admiring the statue of Amphitrite e the dolphin, located on the pier.
Approaching the center, we advise you to visit the Mother Church, consecrated to Sant'Anna and built in the first half of the XNUMXth century in Neoclassical style. In the village there are also other churches, such as that of Saint Peter, one of the oldest buildings in the village.
The XNUMXth century noble palaces are among the most beautiful to admire with a simple walk through the streets of the centre, but in Balestrate you will also come across other buildings, the industrial ones: the winemaking establishments Ingham, Woodhouse e The Florio family, tell the story of the town in the XNUMXth century, while the seat of the Delegation of the Merchant Navy dates back to the XNUMXth century.
Il Calatacupuni Castle, built in the Byzantine era is still partially visible today.
Balestrate and nature
What to see in Balestrate, after having explored the historic centre?
As we have anticipated, here nature skilfully competes with the work of man, offering splendid panoramas such as that of the Gulf of Castellammare, with beaches famous for its golden sand, as well as bays and coves to be discovered.
La Balestrate beach it extends for 8 km with sandy bottoms. The shallow clear waters are perfect for a relaxing swim. Naturally there are bathing establishments along the beach, which guarantee bathers maximum comfort.
For those who want to get away from the center in search of special coves and bays, here are some useful suggestions: Cala di Sicciara, Bay of Caves, Cala dei Petrazzi , Bay of the Phoenicians are some of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
Balestrate and surroundings
What if we told you that the surroundings of Balestrate are also full of attractions to visit? After discovering all the glimpses of the fishing village, are you ready to find out what to see in Balestrate, just a few kilometers away from the centre? The Calatubo Castle, of Byzantine origin, is located just 7 km from the town, on top of a hill, on whose side a necropolis from the XNUMXth century BC was found. Sanctuary of the Madonna del Ponte it is located just 5 km from Balestrate and is famous for the Masses which are celebrated outdoors in the summer, on the large square in front of the building.
The area surrounding Balestrate is full of accommodation facilities in which to stay, but also clubs, farmhouses, stables and centers where you can play sports. Just 4 km from Balestrate, stands the village of Trappeto, famous for its Ciammarita beach.
Typical dishes in Balestrate
Now that you have discovered what to see in Balestrate during a stay in the town, don't forget to taste the typical dishes of the place, which will make yours truly unique Sicilian holiday. If the menu offers you an embarrassment of choice, we advise you to start from the fish, naturally very fresh: mussels au gratin and swordfish rolls are a great classic in these parts, while for meat, ask for the cutlet in vinegar or the murata, other typical recipes of food Palermo.
Sicilian pesto, with almonds, basil and garlic, will be the perfect condiment for fresh pasta, while among typical products to be purchased at the numerous farms that you will find on site, we advise you to try oil, cheese and almonds.
How to get to Balestrate
Balestrate, in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, is about 57 km from the capital of the island. Tourists who want to reach this country overlooking the Gulf can choose to travel by car or train.
Who prefers the car, will find the exit for the center on the A29 Palermo-Mazara del Vallo, while those arriving on the train, getting off at the Punta Raisi-Cinisi station, you will be in Balestrate with a short journey of about 17 km, conducted by bus or private shuttle.
