The castle in Aci, located in Aci Castello, is the emblematic monument of the small seaside village of Acicastello in the province of Catania, with uncertain origins. It was the center of development for the Aci territory during the Middle Ages. The structure of the castle dates back to the Norman conquest of Sicily and can now be admired from the central square of the village, where the castle stands overlooking the sea. This fortress was the scene of one of the most important moments in history, the war between the Angevins and the Aragonese, which lasted two centuries. In this regard, the municipality of Aci Castello recently organized a magnificent reenactment of the fire during the fight between Martino il Giovane di Aragona and Artale II d’Aragona.
History
Since the mid-16th century, its function has been that of a barracks and later a prison where prisoners lived in miserable conditions, often dying in the dungeons. Unfortunately, it suffered damage following the earthquake of January 1, 1693. During the 19th century, it became part of the municipal domain where, during the same period, the Catania-born writer Giovanni Verga set the novella “Le storie del castello di Trezza” (The Stories of Trezza Castle).
During World War II, a cave was used as an air raid shelter. Subsequently, between 1967 and 1969, restoration works were carried out. In fact, since 1985, it has been possible to access and visit the ancient fortress, which has housed the civic museum since that year. The museum is divided into three sections: mineralogy, paleontology, and archaeology. Today, the castle stands on a promontory of lava rock and is accessible via a masonry staircase. Inside, there are various rooms besides the museum, including a courtyard with a small botanical garden, a chapel, and finally a large terrace where you can admire the breathtaking panorama of the gulf.
Myths and Legends
Around the castle of Acicastello, there are stories and mysteries of a paranormal nature. It is said that the former custodian of the castle saw ghosts of ancient warriors inside the fortress. Recently, two municipal employees who stayed at work until late at night reportedly heard the sound of chains and paranormal moans, causing the two women to flee. The castle of Aci in Aci Castello, among myths, legends and history, is one of the most beautiful castles found in the magnificent city of Catania.
Informazioni per la visita
The Aci Castle in Aci Castello is located in Piazza Castello and can be visited according to the following schedule: • Winter and Autumn: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm • Spring: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm • Summer: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The cost of the entrance ticket to Aci Castle is €3.50, but small discounts are available based on certain categories (age, students, protected categories and law enforcement).