CALASCIBETTA

Benefiting from a glorious setting which consists of a natural amphitheatre nestling in a rocky hollow on the side of a hill, Calascibetta was probably founded during the Arab occupation.

The Mother Church erected in the 14^th century was completely rebuilt after an earthquake in the 1600s. Remains of the former structure lie under the building, only visible below the left nave. Its three naves are divided by stone columns which rise from bases bearing carvings of monstruous figures to support the arcades of pointed arches. To the left is a fine 1500’s baptismal font.

A Norman tower dating from the 11^th century, ornamented with a shallow relief in stone, stands beside the ruined Chiesa di S.Pietro. From a square, on the left, extends a beautiful view on Enna, to the right (its castle and panoramic balcony clearly visible) and the Pergusa Lake below.

Leaving the village in the direction of Villapriolo, you can see the rock-cut tombs of the necropolis of Realmese, dating from the 4^th century BC.

Return to the crossroad and take the left turning (SS 121) for Leonforte. The road winds its way inland across the hills around Enna beyond Regalbuto, offering wonderful views over the countryside, particularly on the section between Nissoria and the turning for Centuripe, in the valley of the Salso River and of the Pozzillo Lake.