Castellana Sicula is a small borgo in the Madonie area, set 765 metres above sea level at the southern entrance to Madonie Park. Its surroundings are rural and open, with cultivated fields, orchards, olive groves, vineyards, pastures, country lanes and mountain scenery giving the village a clear agricultural identity.
Unlike many older Madonie towns, Castellana Sicula has relatively recent origins and a more modern urban character. Most accounts place its foundation in the 18th century, linked to the Duke of Ferrandina after he obtained the right to populate the area from King Philip V of Spain. Its name recalls the Spanish Castellana family of Gemma, the duke’s wife, while fertile land drew farming families from nearby Madonie communities.
For about two centuries Castellana Sicula remained a hamlet of Petralia Sottana before gaining autonomy in 1948, after which new public spaces and civic development shaped the town seen today. This mix of rural Madonie setting, later foundation, Spanish-linked name and strong community traditions gives Castellana Sicula an identity distinct from the older hill towns around it.
Patron Saint:
Saint Francis of Paola (San Francesco da Paola) – 2nd Sunday in July
Nearest Airport:
Catania (Fontanarossa) – (108 km, 01:28)
Neighboring Cities:
