Castelbuono: Baroque art and sacred relics
In the heart of the Madonie Mountains stands the Ventimiglia Castle, built in the 14th century and renovated several times over the centuries.
It houses the Palatine Chapel, where the relic of Saint Anne's skull is preserved, finely decorated with stuccoes by the Serpotta brothers.
Now home to the Civic Museum, the castle features permanent collections and temporary exhibitions — a must-visit for art and history lovers.
Caccamo: between legends, ghosts and breathtaking views
Caccamo Castle is one of the best-preserved Norman manors in Italy. Built on a rocky spur, it overlooks Lake Rosamarina.
Local legends tell of the ghost of Baron Bonello and a nun holding a pomegranate.
Legends aside, the castle's halls offer stunning panoramic views and a deep dive into Sicilian medieval history.
Palermo: Zisa and the Arab-Norman dream
In the namesake district of Palermo stands the Zisa Castle, the summer residence of the Norman kings, begun by William I and completed by William II.
A masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture, it features a ventilation system inspired by Arab engineering.
Today, it is part of the UNESCO Arab-Norman itinerary and can be visited year-round.
Carini: The legend of the Baroness
The Castle of Carini is famous for the tragic story of Baroness Laura Lanza, killed for honor by her father in 1563. According to legend, her bloody handprint reappears on the castle wall every year.
A visit to the manor reveals richly decorated rooms with frescoes, statues, and wooden ceilings, as well as a unique panoramic view.
Alcamo: between food, wine and local identity
In the center of Alcamo stands the Castle of the Counts of Modica, built in the 14th century and later expanded.
Today, it houses the Ethnographic Museum and the Regional Historic Wine Cellar, offering a perfect blend of history and wine culture.
Be sure to also visit the surrounding gardens in Piazza della Repubblica.
Erice: the castle of Venus between history and myth
The final stop is the Castle of Venus in Erice. Built in the 12th century by the Normans, it stands on the site of the ancient temple dedicated to Venus Ericina.
The panoramic view over the sea is among the most stunning on the island. Inside, you’ll find traces of Roman baths, the Well of Venus, and the old Bourbon prisons.
A place of worship, defense, and legend.
