Zafferana Etnea, Sicily, Italy

Zafferana Etnea, Sicily, Italy

Zafferana Etnea, Sicily Italy

At about 500 metres above sea level, Zafferana Etnea offers a welcome escape from the fierce heat of an Italian summer. Tucked between mountain and sea, it lies among the green hills that climb towards the summit of Mount Etna, yet it’s only a short drive from the Ionian coast. The town is a main starting point for trips up to the famous volcano, with roads and walking trails leading into the national park. The bronze doors of the cathedral show a dramatic scene from the 1792 eruption, and you’ll spot religious votive offerings all around town, reflecting both respect for nature and appeals to the saints to protect the community. Living beside Europe’s most active volcano gives the place a constant sense of energy. On some nights you can see the red glow of lava lighting up the peak, and from time to time ash sprinkles down over the town. Zafferana Etnea blends historic buildings with newer development, its economy fuelled by seaside tourism and winter sports. It often surprises visitors that mild, sunny Sicily also offers downhill skiing in the winter months. The town’s name comes from what was once a key source of income: zafferano, or saffron. A painting in the main church shows a vase of crocus flowers, from which saffron is carefully harvested by hand. The Church of Santa Maria della Provvidenza, dedicated to the town’s patron saint, is a beautiful 18th–century building. Every August, Zafferana Etnea stages a huge festival in her honour, with religious processions followed by a lively, town-wide street party. The Municipal Palace is an elegant Liberty–style villa that serves as the town hall, framed by tall palm and pine trees. An amphitheatre has been built following the footprint of an ancient Roman one, with sweeping views and a programme of concerts and plays known as “Etna in Scena”. Zafferana Etnea was an important crossroads in Roman times, lying on the inland route that linked Catania with Taormina, and the present town grew up in 1387 around a Benedictine monastery. Today it is a popular resort that brings together the best of both worlds – beaches and mountain activities – with big views and easy access to sea and slopes alike.
Recommended airport
Catania Fontanarossa (CTA)
Nearby destinations
  • Catania, Sicily a 22.99 km
  • Letojanni a 28.18 km
  • Giardini Naxos, Sicily a 22.22 km