Vicari between Castle, Art and Sicilian Tradition

Vicari between Rocks, History and Local Tradition

Vicari combines remarkable buildings with its own culinary and festive traditions. The castle of Vicari stands on a rock at an altitude of around 700 m and overlooks the entire town. Its history goes back a long way: the castle is documented as early as 881. Access is via stairs; there is no ramp for people with disabilities. This specific access situation is just as much part of the building’s character when planning a visit as its elevated position. The rocky setting also shapes the view of Vicari: the castle is not only part of the town’s history, but also determines the spatial introduction to a tour.

Palazzo Pecoraro Maggi and Sacred Art

A second important historical address is Palazzo Pecoraro Maggi. For more than three centuries, it was the residence of Vicari’s most prominent family, the Pecoraro family. The first floor contains the noble floor with decorated vaulted ceilings. Since May 2022, the palazzo has also housed a gallery of sacred art. The gallery’s sacred art has been part of this historic house since May 2022 and thus stands alongside its older residential history. Access to Palazzo Pecoraro Maggi is possible via a ramp for people with disabilities.

Church and Arab Heritage

The Chiesa Madrice was built around 1200. The Cuba di Ciprigna provides a different cultural accent. The emblematic building is considered an architectural testament to Arab culture in Vicari. It is said to have served as a cistern and was probably part of the Arab aqueduct network.

Passavolante and the Feast of San Giorgio

The Passavolante is also part of Vicari’s local character. It is a typical sweet from Vicari, made from almonds, sugar and egg whites. The local tradition finds festive expression in the Feast of San Giorgio, celebrated on 23 May. The feast includes a traditional horse procession with figures in historical costumes and richly decorated horses. The date of 23 May is a specific reference point when planning a cultural trip, while the procession shapes the feast day with its costumes and decorated horses. Architecture, sacred art, Arab-influenced heritage, sweet treats and the procession thus open up different ways of experiencing Vicari, without any single aspect fully explaining the town.

The Interests Vicari Brings Together

If you are looking for a place with a historical focus for your trip to Italy, Vicari offers several specific themes: the elevated castle, the family history of Palazzo Pecoraro Maggi, decorated vaulted ceilings, sacred art, the Chiesa Madrice and the Cuba di Ciprigna. Those who also want to discover regional everyday culture can include the Passavolante; those interested in living traditions will find a distinct point of connection in the Feast of San Giorgio. When choosing a hotel, Vicari can therefore be assessed according to your personal travel interests – for example, architecture and history, art, religious heritage or local festival culture.

More destinations for your trip to Italy: Palazzo Adriano, Godrano, Mezzojuso, San Mauro Castelverde, Montelepre, Caltavuturo, Aspra and San Cipirello.

For the overview of the wider region: Palermo.