Rocca di Novara, Mountain summit in northeastern Sicily, Italy
The Rocca di Novara rises to 1340 meters within the Peloritani mountain range and features steep rocky walls that define its rugged character. Multiple marked hiking trails connect to the summit from different starting points, offering varying levels of difficulty for hikers.
In ancient times, locals dug pits into the mountain to collect and store snow, especially during warmer months. This system allowed them to preserve perishable foods and create refreshments long before modern cooling methods existed.
On August 18th, believers gather at the summit cross for a traditional mass that has made this place a pilgrimage site for generations. This annual celebration connects faith and landscape in a way that holds deep meaning for the local community.
Bring sturdy footwear and weather-resistant clothing, as conditions can change rapidly at this elevation. Both routes from Novara di Sicilia and Fondachelli-Fantina are accessible, though checking local conditions before departing is recommended for a safe hike.
The mountain's profile resembles the Dolomites so closely that it earned the nickname Cervino di Sicilia, named after its more famous counterpart in northern Italy. The rocky walls also form a profile that appears to resemble a human face, giving the place a distinctive visual quality.
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