Overview
The impregnable city
Rising up over 900 metres above sea level, Enna is the highest capital city in Italy. Its milder summer climate compared to the rest of Sicily makes it the perfect place to seek refuge from the island’s torrid heat, so much so that Frederick II, Duke of Swabia built his namesake octagonal tower here as a summer residence.
But the city’s history goes back much further, as far as the Neolithic period. The Romans named it Urbs Inexpugnabilis, in recognition of its legendary resistance to conquest.
The most renowned historical monuments include the Lombardy Castle, one of the largest castles in Italy, named after the Lombard infantry who served to defend the fortress. Of its twenty towers, only six remain today, including Torre Pisana, which offers stunning panoramic views from the Madonie mountains to Mount Etna.
Nearby is Lake Pergusa, the only remaining natural freshwater reservoir on the island. Surrounded by pristine nature, it is the ideal destination to enjoy a walk in the open air. The route covers almost 5 kilometres in total, but swimming in the lake is strictly prohibited.
The most striking places to see around the city include the Byzantine village of Vallone Canalotto, an ancient settlement carved into the stone four kilometres from the village of Calascibetta. Be sure to visit the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, a late antique residence famous for its beautifully preserved mosaics.
94100 Enna EN, Italia
