High above Palermo nestled on the slopes of Monte La Moarda sits Altofonte. A charming village it boasts a rich history. Once a royal hunting ground for King Roger II it was known as Parco until the 1930s. Altofonte means high springs a fitting name given the abundance of water sources.
Imagine the grandeur of the Palazzo del Parco. A royal residence transformed into a Cistercian convent. Think of the monks their quiet lives surrounded by the beauty of the Sicilian countryside. Peter II of Aragon was even born within these very walls.
Explore the Church of Santa Maria in Altofonte. Built in 1633 this church stands as a testament to Altofonte’s enduring faith. Admire the original marble high altar and a bas-relief of the Madonna di Altofonte dating back to 1328. Also discover the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo. Its Byzantine structure and decorative arches are simply breathtaking.
Altofonte’s beauty extends beyond its religious sites. Six fountains grace the main square each with its own unique story. The Fontana Borbonica the Fontana Borghese the Fontana Impero. These are just a few examples of the village’s water features. The Vernaci Palace a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture houses a library containing thousands of ancient books. These date back to the 17th and 19th centuries.
The Ruggieriano Palace a former prince’s summer residence offers breathtaking natural scenery. This is a place of tranquility and beauty. The Alimena-Caruto manor house a 16th-century building adds to Altofonte’s impressive collection of historical homes. Even the Garibaldi Obelisk built in 1910 stands as a reminder of the Risorgimento. This monument commemorates a fierce battle at Calvario.
Explore the Robinson park and the Parco Itinerante della Moarda. Both offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment of the natural beauty. Altofonte blends history nature and culture. Its charm extends from its rich past to its thriving present. You will leave Altofonte with memories that will last a lifetime.