Discover Monterosso Almo

Monterosso Almo combines sacred art, a far-reaching history and distinctive culinary traditions. Those looking for accommodation in this Sicilian town will find a range of starting points for planning their trip: Baroque churches, the archaeological past of Monte Casasia, festivals throughout the year and specialities closely associated with the town.

Baroque Churches and a Distinctive Local History

Inside, the Basilica of San Giovanni Battista features three naves, marble altars, frescoes and typical Baroque decorations. It is considered an elegant example of Sicilian Baroque and is known for its solar alignment: on 24 June, the saint is illuminated by this alignment. In addition to its furnishings, this gives the church a precisely defined architectural feature.

Another historical focal point is the Chiesa Madre Maria SS. Assunta. It was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style after the earthquake of 1693. The town museum in Palazzo Cocuzza preserves archaeological finds from Monte Casasia. The Casa Museo di Suor Rosa Roccuzzo tells the story of the life and work of the religious woman who was born in this house and lived there during the early years of the 20th century. At the same time, it provides an insight into Sicily at that time.

Monte Casasia and Parco Forestale Canalazzo

Monte Casasia reaches far back into the island’s history. The settlement and necropolis form a fortified hilltop settlement of Siculian origin. It was already in use at the beginning of the Iron Age, in the 10th–9th century BC, and flourished particularly in the 7th–6th century BC. The necropolis of Monte Casasia is located in Parco Forestale Canalazzo.

Parco Forestale Canalazzo, also known as Parco Canalazzo or Bosco di Canalazzo, is designated as an area of natural and archaeological interest within the municipality of Monterosso Almo. For travel planning, this creates a clear distinction from the churches and museums: here, the focus is on the connection between the landscape and archaeological history, while the buildings in the town make art, faith and more recent memories visible.

Festivals, Bread and Almond Sweets

The Festa di San Giovanni is celebrated in Monterosso Almo on the first Sunday in September. It includes two processions; the simulacrum of the saint is carried on the shoulders on a “vara”. From 25 December to 6 January, the Presepe Vivente takes place in the lanes of the Quartiere Matrice. Traditional crafts are recreated as part of the event.

The local cuisine also offers specific reasons to get to know Monterosso Almo better. The bread culture includes durum-wheat bread and “u scacciuni”. When served warm, “u scacciuni” is refined with oil, oregano and “cappuliatu” made from sun-dried tomatoes. Among the local almond sweets, “i marmarati” and “i maretti” represent a tradition of their own; “i maretti” are made exclusively from almonds. The Sagra dei Cavatieddi takes place in Piazza Sant’Antonio as an annual event. There, visitors can sample Cavatieddi al sugo and other typical specialities.

Further Places for Your Research

If you would like to extend your search to other local pages, you can also find Modica, Acate, Pietre Nere San Zagaria, Caucana-Finaiti-Casuzze-Finaiti N., Comiso, Gilestra Ii, Cimillà and Balata di Modica.

For the higher-level travel overview: Ragusa.