Petralia Soprana is a hidden gem in the heart of the Madonie Mountains and is one of the most picturesque and charming hilltop villages we visited in Sicily.
The village’s history dates back to the Byzantine era when it was a fortress guarding the surrounding territory. Over the centuries the village grew and prospered leaving behind a rich cultural heritage that is still evident today.
As we wandered through the streets we discovered some real gems from the Normand and Baroque period. There are several beautiful churches. Charming houses made of stone and red tiles line the streets and we discovered several picturesque squares that seemed frozen in time.
We made a short video of our day in Petralia Soprana. It was a cold, cloudy morning and the village was gray and quiet. We thought we were in for a lousy day until the wind died down, the sun came out and the village came to life! We had a blast. Enjoy!
One of the most striking features of Petralia Soprana is its location. The village is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys and majestic mountains. The Madonie Mountains, which rise to over 2,000 meters, are a paradise for hikers with trails that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
The views from the mountain tops are simply breathtaking with sweeping panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea, Mount Etna and the Sicilian countryside.
Petralia’s Cuisine
Another highlight of Petralia Soprana is its delicious cuisine — which features a mix of local and traditional Sicilian dishes. The village’s location in the heart of the Madonie Mountains means that many of the ingredients used in the local cuisine are sourced from the surrounding area. Wild mushrooms, chestnuts, and game are just some of the local delicacies that you can sample in the village’s restaurants and trattorias.
And don’t forget to try the delicious local cheese, known as “tuma,” which is made from sheep’s milk and has a distinct flavor that is unique to Petralia Soprana. It is used in a local delicacy, a pastry called Sfoglio delle Madonie, a cake with tuma cheese, chocolate and cinnamon filling.
Petralia Soprana is indeed a hidden gem of Sicily that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. If you plan on exploring Sicily’s hidden interior definitely add this to your list along with Caltavutoro.
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