Licodia Eubea is a small inland borgo on the north-western side of the Hyblaean Mountains, spread across two hills above the valley of the Dirillo River. Its setting of gentle uplands, agave and prickly pear gives the village a distinctly interior Sicilian character, far from the coastal image of the island and closely tied to agriculture, local customs and everyday village life.
Its identity reaches back to antiquity: the territory was inhabited by Greeks and Romans, and some historians associate it with ancient Euboia, a Chalcidian colony said to have been founded in 650 BC. The name “Eubea” preserves that Greek memory, while “Licodia” has a less certain origin, possibly linked to Greek or Arabic roots.
In the Middle Ages, Licodia Eubea became a strategic feudal centre connected with noble families including the Filangeri, Santapau and Ruffo, and it was once nicknamed “little Palermo” because of its noble presence. Today, its two-hill layout, layered ancient and medieval identity, and strong inland traditions make it one of Sicily’s more distinctive historic villages.
Patron Saint:
Saint Margaret of Antioch (Santa Margherita d’Antiochia) – 20 July
Nearest Airport:
Comiso (Pio La Torre) – (31 km, 00:35)
