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The Charm of Galati Mamertino: A Sicilian Gem


05 January 2024 - Categorie: The places of the heart, Cities of Art and Villages, Nature tourism Tags: Trip to Sicily, Tourism in Sicily, Itineraries in Sicily, Gastronomy in Sicily, Villages of Sicily, Nature in Sicily, Western Sicily, 10 things to see absolutely in Sicily, 10 places not to be missed in Sicily, The best destinations in Sicily, Places to visit in Sicily, Beauties of Sicily, History of Sicily

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque island of Sicily,and surrounded by the marvellous Nebrodi Park, the village of Galati Mamertino stands as a testament to the rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty that define this enchanting region. With its ancient roots, mediaeval architecture, and vibrant community, Galati Mamertino offers tourists a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the essence of Sicilian life.

Galati Mamertino has a history that spans millennia, with roots dating back to ancient times. Originally founded by the Siculi, an ancient Italic people, the village has witnessed the ebb and flow of different civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and more. This amalgamation of influences has shaped the village into a living tapestry of historical significance.

One of the village's notable landmarks is the Norman Castle, which stands proudly atop a hill, overlooking the surrounding landscape. Built in the 11th century, the castle has served various purposes throughout the centuries, including defensive strongholds and noble residence. Exploring its well-preserved structure provides a captivating glimpse into the mediaeval history of Galati Mamertino.

The village is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, each building telling a story of its own. Narrow cobblestone streets wind through the heart of Galati Mamertino, adorned with traditional houses featuring wrought-iron balconies and colourful facades. The Church of St. Nicholas, with its intricate Baroque architecture, stands as a testament to the religious fervour that has permeated the village for centuries.

As you wander through the streets, you'll encounter charming piazzas, where locals gather for conversation and relaxation. The village's architecture reflects a harmonious blend of different historical periods, creating a visually stunning and culturally rich atmosphere.

Also, Sicily is renowned for its delectable cuisine, and Galati Mamertino is no exception. The village boasts traditional Sicilian restaurants and trattorias where visitors can savour authentic dishes passed down through generations. From freshly caught seafood to locally sourced produce, the culinary offerings provide a taste of Sicilian culture and hospitality.

Galati Mamertino comes alive during its various festivals and celebrations. One of the most notable events is the Feast of St. Nicholas, a religious celebration that brings the community together in joyous revelry. During these festivities, the streets are adorned with colourful decorations, and traditional music and dance fill the air. These events offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions and warm hospitality of the Sicilian people.

Finally, surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes which the Nebrodi Park provides, Galati Mamertino offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The village is an excellent starting point for exploring the Sicilian countryside and many other tourist places: Palermo certainly has an infinite number of monuments and history to offer you as well as being an excellent starting point for visiting the jewels of this part of Sicily such as Monreale and Mondello or, towards the west, the marvellous beaches of Scopello (lo Zingaro) and San vito lo Capo about 40 minutes by car, the mediaeval Erice, the salt pans of Trapani, the island of Mozia and the Egadi islands, towards the east Cefalù at 1 hour by car. Cefalu has some grandeur in its past too-it was important enough for one of Sicily's Norman rulers to build a glorious Cathedral here. The town is also the doorway to the Madonie which is the most important Nature Park in Sicily with its noble, unhurried, mediaeval villages that are full of surprises too. We highly recommend excursions to Castelbuono, Gratteri, Polizzi Generosa and Petralia Soprana and Sottana. And when you are tired at the end of the day, you can stay in one of our luxury villas with private pools in the area.

Recommended villas


Buena Vista: Majestic and elegant private villa in one of the most sought-after cities by world tourism: Taormina. With its 3000 square meters of garden, get ready for a holiday in the colors of eastern Sicily, enjoy the quiet inside the wonderful Jacuzzi located on the terrace of the house to give you an unprecedented view of the sea and the bay of the city since always most praised by writers, philosophers and artists such as Goethe, Nietzsche and Klimt.

Borgo degli Aranci: In the village of Fiumefreddo, at the foot of Mount Etna and in front of the Ionian Sea, this spectacular residence is born, surrounded by citrus trees whose scent of oranges will delight your holidays. The residence is divided into three wonderful houses close to each other and surrounded by 11 hectares of land whose green lawn will lead you to the splendid swimming pool overlooking the gentle slope that naturally slopes towards the sea.

Villa Tao: Immersed in a garden of over 2000 square meters full of plants with Mediterranean colors and scents, Villa Tao is a sensational villa with a modern and Sicilian taste far from the chaos of the city despite being a 10-minute walk from the town of Letojanni. With its splendid private swimming pool, its 6-seater Jacuzzi and its large and shaded patio, the residence is the perfect solution for large groups and is ready to give you moments of total peace and harmony while surrounded by the sounds of north-eastern nature.

Viagrande: Luxurious villa with private pool located in Viagrande, on the south-eastern side of Etna. Furnished with taste and elegance but with a modern spirit, this splendid residence will give you moments of absolute quiet on its well-equipped and covered terrace or in its swimming pool immersed in the green of the English lawn and surrounded by Mediterranean plants.

Villa D'amare: Wonderful villa with private swimming pool, immersed in a 3000 square metre garden and located in one of the most sought-after places of tourism in Sicily: Mondello. Ideal starting point for exploring the heart of north-western Sicily from Scopello to San Vito Lo Capo, from Caccamo to Monreale, from Marsala to Cefalù, this exquisite residence is ready to give you an adventure holiday in Sicily for just 700 metres from the beach, but also relaxation in its fantastic private swimming pool surrounded by the greenery of Sicilian nature.

Lilla: Just 350 m from the famous beach of Mondello, this elegant residence is born with a well-kept garden of 1500 square metres and a Mediterranean taste in which there is a magnificent private swimming pool surrounded by palm trees, ficus and banana trees. Despite the proximity to one of the most popular beaches for international tourism, the property will give you moments of peace and privacy while immersed in the colours and scents of our beautiful Sicily.

Coda di Volpe and Punta a Mare: two magnificent villas with a simple and Mediterranean taste located in the splendid tourist-seaside area of ​​Cefalù, full of trattorias and restaurants where you can enjoy excellent fish-based dishes and more. Although the residences do not offer a private swimming pool, they do have direct access to the sea: on one side, the comfortable platform between the rocks and on the other, the golden sandy beach. The properties can be rented individually or together up to a maximum occupancy of 19 guests.

Terre di Lula: There are very few words to describe Terre di Lula because this is not just a residence, it's a sensation. It is located in the heart of the Madonie Natural Park in a fantastic medieval village called Polizzi Generosa, one of the few where you can still experience the real rural Sicily. Choose this breathtaking villa to experience the colors and scents of Sicily, to experience Nature and become one with it in absolute peace and relaxation as you bathe in the stunning private infinity pool that looks like a lake flowing over the beautiful rich mountains of trees and friendly animals

Carlotta: Carlotta is a delightful residence with a simple and modern taste, equipped with all the comforts one may need on holiday. It is located in the area of ​​one of the most famous seaside resorts in Sicily: Cefalù. Apart from the proximity to this town full of restaurants and shops, the house has direct access to the sea.

Casa dei Nomadi: Are you looking for a residence a few steps from the sea, with a private swimming pool and hydromassage tub for a holiday of both relaxation and fun? Go no further as Casa dei Nomadi is right up your alley. This delightful property is located between Finale di Pollina and Castel di Tuna, in north western Sicily in an exquisite bay called Baia Turchina. With 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, it is absolutely ideal for large families and groups of friends.

Calaluna: Delightful cottage born among the rocks, and partially obtained from them, of the wonderful area of ​​Cefalù called Kalura. It was born in front of the fantastic stacks of the area and is located almost on the water. Not surprisingly, you will almost feel like you are on a boat. Equipped with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, this splendid property is suitable for couples or small families who wish to enjoy a relaxing beach holiday away from the chaos of the city.

Lalli House: Located on one of the most suggestive promontories of the Sicilian coast from which to enjoy unforgettable sunsets, this delightful charming retreat is ideal for couples of friends and small families who wish to spend a beach holiday away from the chaos of the city. The small beach, which is accessed via a stone staircase, is in fact reserved only for the owners of neighbouring villas.