VALLELUNGA PRATAMENO

Vallelunga Pratameno stands on a much fertile area of the province of Caltanissetta, bathed by the Salacio creek, at an altitude of roughly 500m asl. Various archaeological finds attest to the presence of human settlements here since the Prehistory – notably the Bronze Age. The modern city sprung up in 1633 when the aristocratic Pietro Marino was granted permission to settle.

The best attraction is the 1600’s Mother Church dedicated to the Madonna di Loreto – the Patron Saint – in the city heart, that is Piazza Umberto I. The church has an imposing façade with two bell-towers and battlement. Its three naves are adorned with fine pieces of art, like the 1600’s statue of the Madonna di Loreto, a splendid painting depicting the Madonna del Rosario and statues of the Virgin and Saint Joseph. The now closed Oratorio del Signore and the 1700’s church of the Holy Rosary are also worthy of note.

A fascinating overview of old rural life is offered at the Museo della Civiltà Contadina (museum of the rural life), harboring beautifully detailed reconstructions of rural homes and artisan’s workshops.

The city environs are home to impressing naturalistic sites, such as the Collina di Tanarizzi

and the Regaleali estate; the latter is property of the Counts Tasca d’Almerita, its vines having contributed to producing most prestigious Sicilian wines.