Sanctuary of Gibilmanna

The Sanctuary of Gibilmanna is a church building standing at 800 meters on the slopes of Pizzo Sant'Angelo, combining Roman, Gothic, and Norman architectural elements. Its structure shows different layers of building styles that reflect the site's complex history.

The site began as one of six Benedictine monasteries founded before 590, then underwent transformations during Arab rule and later Norman reconstruction. These phases shaped the architectural and cultural features visible today.

The Museum of Franciscan Presence holds regional artworks from the 16th through 18th centuries, including paintings, wooden statues, and religious vestments. These pieces reflect the artistic tradition maintained by the monks who lived here across generations.

The sanctuary stands approximately 15 kilometers from Cefalù and is reached by car through mountain roads, with parking near the entrance. The roads are narrow and winding, so careful driving is necessary.

The name Gibilmanna comes from Arabic words meaning mountain and manna, referring to a substance extracted from local ash trees in the area. This name origin preserves the Arabic linguistic heritage that shaped Sicily for centuries.