Pantalica

Explore the Nature, History and Archaeology of Pantalica

A Guided Adventure Among the Wonders of Sicily

If you want to discover Sicily’s millennia-old history and natural beauty, the “Pantalica Nature History and Archaeology” excursion is the perfect opportunity.
Guided by expert Gregorio Chiarenza, you will depart from Ferla for an extraordinary adventure that spans the centuries.

The Journey through Time

During this visit, you will take a journey through the history of Sicily, starting from the 12th century B.C. to the present day.
The main archaeological attractions you will explore include:

Final Bronze Age Necropolis: This site is home to the largest Final Bronze Age necropolis in Europe, with more than 5,000 artificial cave tombs.
You will be fascinated by the majesty of this ancient site.
Byzantine Villages of St. Mycidiarius and St. Nicolicchio: You’ll visit these ancient villages that date back to the 4th century A.D. and admire rock churches dating from the same period.
Anaktoron: This is the prince’s palace, which served as the seat of local power in the 12th century BC.
Remains of a Greek Trench: A record of the historical events that shaped Sicily.
The “Fat Pecora” Narrow Gauge Railway: This railway was in operation until the last century and represents a piece of industrial history.

Discovering Unique Flora and Medicinal Plants

In addition to the archaeological wonders, you will also explore the rich flora of Pantalica.
During the hike, you will have the opportunity to learn about:

Flora Endemica Iblea: You will discover the unique plant species of this region, some of which are endemic to the Hyblaean area.
Spontaneous Orchids: You will admire orchids that grow wild in the area.
Typical Plants of the Mediterranean Scrub: You will learn about the plants that characterize the Mediterranean scrub landscape.
For each plant, Gregory will explain the therapeutic, medicinal, phytoalimurgical uses and any toxic properties.
This will be an extraordinary opportunity to learn about the traditions associated with the local flora.

An Enchanting Landscape and Exploration of Karst Caverns

All this takes place in a majestic Miocene limestone-marly massif, bounded by the Anapo River and its tributary Calcinara.
Weather permitting, you can even take a dip in the cool waters of the Calcinara and visit one of the karst caves still active in the area.

Details of the Excursion

This excursion offers an extraordinary opportunity to immerse oneself in the nature, history and archaeology of Sicily, all under the expert guidance of Gregorio Chiarenza.

Difficulty

Length

maximum 5 km

Duration

3:00 hours

Min. participants

Departure times

morn. 09:30 | pom. 15:30

Minimum age

not required

When

every day of the week

Pets allowed

Yes

Meeting place

The route can be tailored to your specific requirements, from a minimum of one kilometer to a maximum of twelve kilometers.

The guide speaks Italian, but can provide explanations in English upon request with a minimum of 3 participants.

Depending on the season, it is advisable to bring a cap, water bottle, sunscreen, swimsuit and a K-way or sweatshirt.

Piazza S. Sebastiano, 96010 Ferla Syracuse | Map.

Adults, children aged 12 to 16, hikers, school groups.

Book at least 2 days in advance for Italian and at least 4 days in advance for English.

Gregorio Chiarenza tel. +39 3356318247

The guide may change the route or cancel the hike in case of inclement weather or if any loss of safe trail conditions occurs.