San Leonardello: History, Cuisine and Beaches

San Leonardello can be discovered through several distinct facets. Between Radicepura Botanical Park, Sicilian cuisine, historic sites and nearby beaches, a diverse picture emerges for travellers who want to get to know Italy not only through its famous sights, but also through its landscapes, regional traditions and the character of a place.

Botanical Park and Art Made from Natural Materials

A special point of interest is Radicepura Botanical Park. On the terrace dedicated to citrus fruits is Adrian Paci’s 140-square-metre mosaic made of marble and lava stone, entitled Compito #1. The botanical grounds also include more than 3,000 mother plants that produce healthy, certified seeds and cuttings. This gives you a place where an interest in Mediterranean vegetation and a specific work of art come together.

Hands-On Sicilian Cuisine

Cuisine can also be experienced practically in San Leonardello. Agriturismo San Leonardello offers cooking classes featuring traditional Sicilian recipes. Participants can pick vegetables and fruit from the garden and use them to prepare the dishes during the class.

History and Religious Tradition

The hills surrounding San Leonardello were the site of the Battle of San Leonardello in 1677. This historical connection is one of the specific topics through which the area can be explored. Every year in San Leonardello, on the solemnity of All Saints, a celebration is held in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary della Libertà, the municipality’s patron saint and namesake. The celebration includes a traditional procession with the festival float through the streets of the town. The Maria SS. della Libertà parish is located at Via Madonna della Libertà 30, 95014 San Leonardello di Giarre.

Palaces, Museum and Monument in the Surrounding Area

Palazzo Corvaja is a palace in the immediate vicinity of San Leonardello. Villa Manganelli is a museum in the surrounding area. Palazzo Musmeci, another palace, is also located nearby. Palazzetto Bonaventura is a monument in the immediate vicinity of San Leonardello.

Beaches Around San Leonardello

Spiaggia Praiola is a beach in the immediate vicinity of San Leonardello. Spiaggia Sant'Anna, Spiaggia Fondachelo and Spiaggia di Capomulini are beaches in the surrounding area of San Leonardello.

Getting Oriented Around Giarre and Mount Etna Park

Giarre is home to Giarre-Riposto railway station on the Messina–Catania–Syracuse railway line. From Giarre, the main natural attractions of Mount Etna Park, as well as starting points for excursions and guided tours, can be reached within a few minutes by car.

Discover More Destinations

If you would like to extend your trip beyond San Leonardello, also discover Petrosino, Scordia, Biancavilla, Vaccarizzo-Delfino, Pedara, Ragalna, Acireale and Santa Venerina.

For the higher-level travel overview: Catania.