The town of Sciara is a clear example of how much Sicily is a region to be told and discovered, year after year.
It is a small village which contains a fascinating story, with many salient features to highlight. Here's what you need to know about the origins, history and points of cultural interest of the Palermo town.
The first news about Sciara town
The origins of the town of Sciara should go back a long way. Its name comes from Arabic Shiara, a term identified either with lava or with bushland. The translation from Greek is much more explicit and leaves no doubt about its meaning, i.e. forest. It is no coincidence that in ancient times there was thick and lush vegetation here. To all this, we must add a high concentration of water.
The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times due to its very fertile territory, ideal for giving birth to an ideal community. Sciara could be considered a rich place in every sense, perfect for allowing the increase in population. There is no shortage of remains that demonstrate the ancient history of the place, such as those of Megalithic walls. The structure is certainly very interesting, at least 9 meters high and made up of enormous boulders, placed one on top of the other.
Sciara town since the seventeenth century
The history of the town of Sciara as we know it dates back to 13 November 1671. On that date, the King of Spain Charles II awarded Filippo Notarbartolo Cipolla the title of first local prince, allowing him to populate the territory. However, around the XNUMXth century, at the time of the lordship of Baron Vincenzo Pilo, it is probable that a town with a church already existed near the Torto river valley.
After acquiring the property, the Notarbartolos had a castle built, symbol of the typical seventeenth-century residences, above all as an aristocratic residence. The town emerged from feudalism towards the nineteenth century, with the reconquest by the farmers who then decided to divide the various territories properly. It was precisely from here that Sciara returned to have an important role in the history of Palermo and beyond.
The main points of interest in Sciara
Today Sciara is a town located in the Palermo hinterland, which has around 3500 inhabitants. Anyone who wants to visit it must know how to choose the right dates to take part in some highly iconic events. A clear example coincides with the Sciara Street Food Fest, the event focused on street food that takes place in July. The first Sunday of August is dedicated to Patron Saint day, Most Holy Crucifix. At the end of September, here is the Palio of Sant'Eligio, followed on December 8 by Procession of the Immaculate Conception. Finally, May 16th of each year is remembered Salvatore Carnival, trade unionist and innocent victim of organized crime.
Sciara town, many reasons to visit it
There are so many good reasons to get to know Sciara and discover the heart of Sicily with a thousand-year history. There is nothing left to do but prepare for a truly unique journey and live an experience to remember.
