Sicani Villages proposes experiences of slow tourism that respect local communities.
An exhibition of collective popular art
The Borghi Sicani network proposes an alternative to mass tourism in the heart of Sicily, the Mediterranean's largest island. Among the numerous initiatives, visitors should not miss the Archi d'Estate (Summer Arches) in San Biagio Platani, in the province of Agrigento, some 70 kilometres south of Palermo. This summer edition of the Easter event dedicated to lovers of art, gastronomy and ancient traditions, will feature ephemeral architectural forms made of intertwined willows and reeds, legumes and cereals that become works of contemporary art and will be exhibited until mid-August. "This is one of the few examples of collective popular art in Sicily," explains Paola Busciglio, councillor for tourism of San Biagio Platani, the municipality also famous for its pistachio production.
A film festival that is a trip down memory lane
The Paradiso Film Fest, to be held from 2 to 4 August in Palazzo Adriano, is a real trip down memory lane, with the reconstruction of scenes that have gone down in history and new film narratives in the places where Giuseppe Tornatore's “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso” was filmed. "Our inland area, which continues to be a popular destination for many international film productions, shows tourists how it is possible to create a quality artistic project even inland," says Nicola Granà, mayor of Palazzo Adriano.
Music, peaches and wine
Music will also be the protagonist of the Sicilian summer, with the Cortili Jazz Festival in Sant'Angelo Muxaro, some 20 kilometres south of Agrigento, in the courtyards and small squares, alleys and narrow streets of the village on 7 and 8 August. For those in search of authentic flavours, Bivona there will hold the Festival of the Peach, one of the most historical and delicious events in the area, on 10 and 11 August. Also not to be missed are the wine tastings with Luna Sicana or Luna Minoica, who are partners of the Sicani Villages network.
