What to See in Buccheri: A Guide to History, Nature and the Views of the Hyblaean Mountains
- veronicameriggi
- 4 days ago
- 6 min read
Perched on the Hyblaean Mountains at over 800 metres above sea level, Buccheri is the highest village in the province of Syracuse and one of the most characteristic in south-eastern Sicily. Listed among The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, it is a small gem where time seems to move at a slower pace.
If you’re wondering what to see in Buccheri, you’ll find a historic centre rich in ancient churches, the remains of a Norman castle, stone fountains and glimpses opening onto breathtaking views. Around the village, trails immersed in nature lead to the Gole della Stretta gorge and Monte Lauro, while in town the culinary tradition invites you to stop and taste olive oil, cheeses and typical dishes of the Hyblaean area. An authentic place, perfect for those seeking a less touristy Sicily but rich in stories to discover.
What to See in Buccheri’s Historic Centre
Strolling through Buccheri’s historic centre is like taking a journey through cobbled lanes, panoramic views and traces of different eras. The medieval layout intertwines with Baroque architecture and small details that tell of everyday life in times gone by. Every corner seems to hold a story, from centuries-old churches to fountains that once quenched the thirst of travellers and pack animals.
Mother Church and Religious Heritage
The spiritual heart of the village, the Church of Saint Ambrose, known as the Mother Church, dominates the main square with its imposing façade. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, the building houses fine works of sacred art and a high altar that reflects the skill of local craftsmen.
Alongside the Mother Church, Santa Maria Maddalena, with its sober elegance, and Sant’Antonio Abate, linked to one of the most heartfelt local festivities, are also worth a visit. Stepping into these places means breathing in centuries of devotion and admiring architectural details that testify to Buccheri’s layered history.
Historic Fountains and Water Troughs
Among the most authentic symbols of the village are its stone fountains. The most famous is the Fontana dei Canali, with its basins and carved spouts — once a meeting point for residents and a must-stop for those travelling with pack animals. Today, beyond their aesthetic value, these fountains tell of the importance of water in rural life and the community’s ability to preserve a simple yet defining heritage.
The Castle of Buccheri
A short distance from the centre, on a raised point, stand the remains of the Castle of Buccheri, of Norman origin. Although only some sections of the walls are still visible today, the site retains a special charm and offers panoramic views stretching from the Hyblaean Mountains to the coastal areas on clear days. Visiting this spot means touching a centuries-old page of the village’s history and enjoying one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Museums and Local Traditions
In addition to its landscapes and historic architecture, Buccheri preserves a rich heritage of material culture and traditions that tell of life in times past. Visiting museums and places of memory means coming into contact with the most authentic soul of the village, made up of field work, ancient crafts and customs that still survive in local festivals and celebrations.
Ecomuseum of the Hyblaean Mountains
Located in the heart of the village, the Ecomuseum of the Hyblaean Mountains is a place that collects and promotes the community’s historical memory. Its ethnographic collections include objects linked to rural culture, artisanal tools, woodworking and blacksmithing equipment, and even examples of finely decorated Sicilian carts.
There are also sections dedicated to popular religiosity, with statues, votive offerings and sacred artefacts that reveal the deep connection between faith and daily life. It is an essential stop for anyone wanting to truly understand the identity of Buccheri and the Hyblaean area.
The Ancient Snow Pits
Among Buccheri’s most fascinating curiosities are the ancient snow pits, large masonry or rock-cut cavities where, until a few decades ago, snow collected in winter was stored. It was pressed, covered with straw and used in the warmer months for food and medicinal purposes, as well as for making granita and sorbet.
In the past, the sale of snow was an important economic resource for the village, fuelling a true trade with coastal towns. Today, the snow pits stand as silent witnesses of an era when ingenuity and adaptation were essential to face the challenges of climate and everyday life.
Nature and Trekking in Buccheri
Buccheri is not just history and architecture: its territory is a paradise for those who love nature and outdoor walks. Nestled in the Hyblaean Mountains, it offers routes for everyone, from simple scenic walks to more challenging hikes. With spectacular gorges, shaded woods and views stretching to Mount Etna, each season here offers different colours and atmospheres.
The Gole della Stretta
A few kilometres from the centre, the Gole della Stretta is a geosite of great natural interest. This canyon was carved by water over millennia, with limestone walls enclosing a small stream. The area is perfect for a half-day hike, with sections alternating between easy passages and wilder stretches. Beyond its scenic beauty, the gorge contains archaeological evidence such as ancient Castelluccian tombs, making the excursion even more captivating.
Monte Lauro and the Views of the Hyblaean Mountains
At over 980 metres above sea level, Monte Lauro is the highest point in the Hyblaean Mountains and a must-see for visitors to Buccheri. Its trails open onto views that sweep across hills, valleys and, on clear days, even the outline of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
The area is rich in Mediterranean vegetation, with oak and chestnut woods, and is home to varied wildlife including birds of prey, small mammals and numerous bird species. The trails are suitable both for experienced hikers and for those simply looking to enjoy a walk in nature.
Buccheri Forest Park
For those seeking a peaceful spot to spend a few hours outdoors, the Buccheri Forest Park is the ideal choice. Located a short distance from the village, it offers picnic areas, easy trails and shaded zones to relax in on summer days. It’s perfect for families and also a good starting point for longer hikes into the surrounding natural areas. Here, contact with nature is immediate and accessible to all.
Events and Gastronomy
Life in Buccheri is marked by festivals and events that blend devotion, tradition and conviviality. These are perfect opportunities to discover the most authentic side of the village and to taste its culinary specialities, which reflect the agricultural and pastoral richness of the Hyblaean Mountains.
Religious Festivals and Fairs
Among the most heartfelt events are the celebrations in honour of Sant’Antonio Abate and Santa Maria Maddalena, with processions, decorations and community gatherings. In autumn and winter, the village hosts fairs dedicated to seasonal products, such as the Mushroom Fair, where you can enjoy traditional dishes made with porcini, Caesar’s mushrooms and other local varieties.
Local Products
Buccheri’s food and wine is a chapter of its own. Its extra virgin olive oil is among the most renowned in Sicily, the result of centuries-old olive groves and a focus on quality production. Equally notable are the artisan cheeses, from fresh pecorino to aged varieties, and dishes featuring mushrooms gathered in the surrounding woods. Don’t miss the homemade pasta, often dressed with simple, genuine sauces that enhance the flavours of the land. Dining here means enjoying an authentic culinary experience, tied to the rhythm of the seasons and recipes handed down through generations.
How to Get to Buccheri
Buccheri is about 50 km from Syracuse and can be reached in less than an hour by car. Starting from your stay at Hotel Algilà in Ortigia, just leave the centre via the Umbertino Bridge and follow signs for the SS124 towards Floridia and Solarino. This scenic road passes through rolling hills, olive groves and small rural villages before climbing into the Hyblaean Mountains, offering ever-wider views as you approach Buccheri.
For those arriving by car from Catania, the fastest route is via the SS114 to Lentini, then the SP12 towards Buccheri, with a travel time of about an hour and twenty minutes.
If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can reach Buccheri by AST (Azienda Siciliana Trasporti) buses departing from Syracuse and stopping in the main inland towns. However, services are not very frequent and may require changes, so for a day trip renting a car remains the most convenient option.
Alternatively, you can arrange a private tour or driver transfer — a practical choice for those who want a hassle-free experience and perhaps combine a visit to Buccheri with other stops in the Hyblaean Mountains, such as Palazzolo Acreide or the Gole della Stretta.
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