Mistretta Castle

Il Arab-Norman castle of Mistretta con l 'Acropolis of Amestratos contains a truly fascinating story. Let's dive into a short journey into the history of Sicily.

Brief history of Mistretta Castle

The Arab-Norman castle of Mistretta has a lot to tell. It all began in 1101, when the Count Roger he donated the entire town with the attached castle to the Royal State Property. For the following three centuries, the place was the setting for numerous social and political events, passing through the hands of the various rulers of the city. Furthermore, it was also the home selected for the refuge of Matteo Bonello, who inside it architected a conspiracy against il Norman king William.
It was also the seat of Frederick of Aragon on the night before the wedding with Costanza.

After some archaeological excavations in the 80s, in Mistretta castlethe remains of aancient church, probably built by the Normans on the ashes of Byzantine buildings. Over the decades, the structure has found new light. In 2000, a new piece of history of a unique archaeological find emerged, with three different environments later identified as possible warehouses. Further down, an area dedicated to the conservation of weapons, with stones used for catapults.

Architecture and works of art of the Arab-Norman Castle and Acropolis of Amestratos

Once upon a time, the castle of Mistretta was a fortress. Today it stands on the top of a cliff located about 1000 meters above sea level, in the valley of the Serravalle torrent. The lookouts are still located between the towns of Santa Croce and Mistretta. Its structure dates back to the late period Middle Ages. Below the architectural point, the ancient and suggestive should be located Acropolis of Amestratos. Over the years, more and more exciting research is being carried out that highlights the social importance of Sicily over the centuries, with an eventful history.

All 'interior of Mistretta castle, there was the finding of a water tank, capable of testifying to the daily use of a building imbued with charm. Thanks to this find, it is possible to demonstrate that different civilizations chose the castle as their permanent home. Inside, six rooms were discovered, one of which was rectangular in shape and used as a representation room. Furthermore, you can also view monete dating back toHellenistic age.

What to do near Mistretta castle

The Arab-Norman castle of Mistretta offers numerous opportunities to live an experience to remember. From the top of the hill, it is possible to admire a wonderful view towards the town which today has 4 thousand inhabitants. If the weather is clear, the hill allows you to easily see the Aeolian Islands, while towards the south appear i Nebrodi Mountains. Roofs and towers make the landscape romantic and evocative.

The vision of is also important Porta Palermo, located on the edge of a famous bridge. The Tita Palace takes its name from a noble family and offers numerous points of interest, as it is possible to view the San Vincenzo Fountain e Villa Garibaldi, with a clear medieval style. Those who love nature can admire the whole Valley of the Mistretta waterfalls, including the Ciddia waterfalls and Urio Quattrocchi lake. Don't miss them feasts of San Sebastianoand Our Lady of Light.

How to get to Mistretta

Anyone who wants to discover the Mistretta castle can do so by car, taking the A20 and exiting at Santo Stefano di Camastra or Tusa, with a distance of approximately 10 and 15 kilometers from the centre. By train, about 30 kilometers from the destination, here are the stations of Sant'Agata di Militello and Cefalù. By plane, just reach the Catania airport 80 kilometers from Mistretta and move with the various means available.