What is meant by ‘Calatino‘? Think about Sicilian hinterland, the province of Catania, in between Erei and Iblei Mountains, on the portion of the Plain of Catania framed north by the Simeto river. This is what we call Calatino: an area of great historical and naturalistic value.
This land of myths and ancient traditions has been a crossroads of civilizations and peoples that have left everywhere the signs of their presence. This is the secret of a refined craftsmanship that focuses on tradition and takes advantage of the creativity of numerous craftsmen: artists able to create works of great value appreciated all over the world.
The renowned exagonal main square of Grammichele, and the Occhiolà archaeological site are just a few examples of what a simple walk could imply. The monumental stairway, the famous ceramics, and the well known nativity scenes are a must-see if you happen to be in Caltagirone. Both Grammichele and Caltagirone, as they exist today, were entirely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, and Caltagirone is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in the list as part of the “Late Baroque Towns of Noto Valley”. Taking a tour to this area, you can identify so many influences and artistic trends that your mind will blow.
Calatino is also traditional cuisine: synthesis of a complex web of culinary methods and skills, characterized by a mixture of ingredients, spices and sauces that are the pride of this fertile land. Let’s give just some instance that will give the taste of what will make you whisper: “yummy”! Grammichele sasizza (sausage), piduneda (spinach&cheese garlic-pizza pockets), cavatiedi (pasta), but also Calatino’s bread, cheese, oils, wines and desserts: here a salad is not just a salad, if you know what I mean. Oh, you don’t? Well, just come and experience it, because no word can explain it properly!