Bronte, Agricultural mountain town in Sicily, Italy
Bronte sits on the western slopes of Mount Etna at about 760 meters (2,500 feet) in elevation within the Metropolitan City of Catania. The town spreads across a large mountainous area with volcanic soil that supports local agriculture.
King Ferdinand III founded Bronte as a duchy in 1799 and granted the title of Duke to Admiral Horatio Nelson as a reward for supporting Naples during the revolution. This royal gift created the town's enduring connection to British naval history.
The main square centers on Castello Nelson, a former monastery that connects the town to British naval history through its association with Admiral Nelson. This landmark shapes how residents and visitors experience the heart of the community.
The town is reachable by road from Catania and sits at elevation, so the terrain has slopes and hills throughout. Wear comfortable shoes when exploring, as you will encounter uneven ground and inclines while walking through the streets.
Pistachio nuts grow here in the volcanic soil of Mount Etna and develop a flavor found nowhere else in the world. Local growers have perfected the cultivation of this crop, making it a source of pride for the community.
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