Perhaps not everyone knows it, but in Sicily there is a spectacular panoramic view, the Salto dei Ventimiglia, unique in its kind.
I’m Cristian, and last week I told you about Geraci Siculo (read the article here). Today I’m coming back to tell you about what struck me the most, a particular place, located within the town of Geraci, where I had a unique experience.
The Salto dei Ventimiglia
Just beyond the church of San Giuliano, in Mendolilla alley, you can park your car and walk for about ten minutes. After a short climb you come to a narrow little alley that leads you to a glassed-in balcony where there is room for only two people at a time.
The view over the valley, whose vast horizon reaches as far as the slopes of Mount Etna, is breathtaking.
It is called the Salto dei Ventimiglia (Ventimiglia Leap) and was built on the site where, according to historical tradition, Francesco I of Ventimiglia died.
In fact, according to historical sources, it was from this very spot that the Count of Geraci plunged with his horse in 1337, plunging into the deep ravine below, pursued by Pietro d’Aragona’s royal troops who had chased him with no way out.
Today, following the echo of a historical tragedy, a unique viewpoint is admired, much loved by couples and even described as one of the most romantic places in Sicily.
The belvedere consists of a steel and glass walkway about three metres from the edge of the wall. So you can relive, metaphorically of course, the leap into the void.
In the room next to the ground floor of the Municipal Library, an information centre has been set up to tell the story of the historical events.
In the centre there is a multimedia station and some artistic terracotta bas-reliefs, dedicated to the history of the place, have been exhibited, the work of the ceramist from Santo Stefano di Camastra Filadelfio Todaro.
Grab your partner and get your camera ready, I’ve unveiled a real gem; you’ve got to pop in!
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