Places to visit
Novara di Sicilia is a place rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. On this page, you'll find a selection of the main places to visit, including ancient villages, historical monuments, and natural wonders. Discover with us the beauty that makes this area unique and get inspired for your next visit.
Discover the main places to visit
Join us to enhance our cultural and natural heritage. Discover the hidden treasures, centuries-old traditions, and breathtaking landscapes that Novara di Sicilia has to offer. Each place tells a unique story, made of art, nature, and passion for the area. Experience authenticity and let yourself be amazed by the beauty of these extraordinary places.
Novara Fortress / Salvatesta Fortress
An imposing rocky spur (≈ 1,340 m) overlooking the village, also known as the "Matterhorn of Sicily." It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, the valley, and, on clear days, the sea.
Historic Center / Stone Villages
Stroll through the cobbled streets, admiring the arches, doorways, stone balconies, and decorative features of the civic buildings. The village is full of evocative views, vistas, alleys, and stairways that reveal its history and artisanal traditions, especially stonemasonry.
Fontana House
A 17th-century residence where Sister Teresa Fontana was born. Located in the historic center, it is noteworthy for its architecture, portal, and decorative elements, such as the keystone and balcony, with features reflecting late 16th-century/Baroque taste.
Castle Ruins
Only a few ruins remain of the Saracen Castle of Novara di Sicilia, but the site retains its charm intact. Situated in a panoramic position, it dominates the village from above, offering a suggestive view of the valley and surrounding mountains.
In addition to its historical and symbolic value, the site currently houses a restaurant that offers the unique experience of tasting local cuisine in a setting rich in atmosphere and memory.
Belvedere / Viewpoint
Several natural observation points, especially from the Rocca, the trekking paths, and the village's high streets overlooking the valley and the sea.
Trails and trekking
Sella Mandrazzi → Rocca di Novara: a fairly well-known scenic route.
The Sentiero Italia - V25 which crosses the area and offers natural views and diverse environments.
Other trails in the surrounding woods, panoramic ridges, for those who love walking immersed in nature.
Churches
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Novara di Sicilia. Inside is the crypt.
The Church of S. Nicolò (1600) with its two portals and sandstone access steps.
The Abbey of Santa Maria la Noara (12th century), in the hamlet of Badiavecchia.
Church of S. Antonio Abate (16th century) located in the lower part of the town, in the neighborhood of the same name.
Church of St. Ugo (16th century) which stands in the upper part of the town and houses a wooden reliquary containing the relics of the Patron Saint Ugo the Abbot and many Holy Martyrs.
The Church of San Francesco is what remains of a small 13th-century Franciscan convent.
San Giorgio dates back to the 17th century and was renovated in 1854 with the arrival of the Discalced Augustinian friars.
R. Casalaina Municipal Theater
Built in 1770, the Teatro Comunale "Riccardo Casalaina" is one of the oldest in Sicily. Named after the Novara musician Riccardo Casalaina, it retains its typical horseshoe-shaped structure with boxes and stalls. After restoration, it is now a vibrant cultural center hosting theatrical performances, concerts, and traditional events, keeping the history and identity of the village alive.
Giorginaro Mill
Nestled in the countryside of Novara di Sicilia, the Giorginaro Mill is the only watermill still in operation. Dating back to the 15th century, it produces flour from ancient Sicilian grains using traditional methods and offers visitors the thrill of witnessing the milling process firsthand. An authentic place where history, nature, and flavor meet.
Sperlinga Shelter
The Riparo della Sperlinga, in the hamlet of San Basilio near Novara di Sicilia, is a fascinating archaeological site with traces of prehistoric life from the Mesolithic to the Metal Age. The rock carvings and signs of ancient human activity can now be explored in greater depth by visiting the artifacts on display at the MANOS Museum in Novara di Sicilia, housed in Palazzo Salvo Risicato, for an experience that combines history, culture, and landscape.