This natural phenomenon is actually a common occurrence, which the locals call maretta. Yet, having criss-crossed its charming narrow streets, one can easily verse into a world of fantasy and believe that the town is actually suspended in mid-air.
Walking is the best way to appreciate Polizzi Generosa. Sidestreets, alleys and winding staircases combine to form an intricate maze connecting its two main roads.
Polizzi also caters to the palate and is home to specialities like chocolate-cinnamon cheese-filled Sfoglio or hazelnut U Cunigghiu, cheese and wines.
The Madonite Environment Museum is housed in the ancient palazzo Notarbartolo. It provides a faithful reproduction of the nearby natural habitats, supported by a rigourous classification of local animal and plant life.
Nestled in the Madonite chain, this town’s ancient origins remain shrouded in mystery. To some, it was the ancient Sicilian Athens. For others, its name is a derivative of Dei Palici, daughter of the nymph Thalia, and thus lending tis name to the Naftolia body of water which springs nearby.
The city’s development occured during the domination of the Byzantine Empire and subsequently in the Norman epoch under the stimulus of Count Ruggero and Countess Adelesia. Polizzi became Generosa when Federico II granted the title in 1224.
The town houses works of significant artistic, historical and architectural merit.
In addition to the majestuous Palazzo Gagliardo dei Baroni di Carpinello the Church of San Pancrazio provides a wonderful panorama in the midst of a Byzantine neighbourhood and houses an important painting by Zoppo di Ganci. The Chiesa Madre, the Cathedral, also houses interesting paintings, including a Flemmish tryptic of the Memling school.
