Abbazia Santa Anastasia Castelbuono

A casket in the heart of the Madonie Park, Abbazia Santa Anastasia is a Relais wrapped by a charming Nature and the fascination of a medieval past. In the magic atmosphere of this timeless glimpse, the enchanting surroundings narrate the enological tradition passed on by the monks and interpreted today in a modern key in full respect of the rhythms of nature.

In an intimate and romantic frame, the charm of history intertwines with the magnificence of the landscape, in a location where it is possible to savour instants of peace and have oneself be cuddled with comfort.

A Village amongst villages where to combine a relaxing walk to discover nature with an exclusive food and wine experience. Plunge into this unique atmosphere within and around the Relais, to rediscover well-being and reunite with yourself.

With a strong emotional and aesthetic impact, in harmony with the dreamlike and rural environment, Abbazia Santa Anastasia cultivates its lands in respect of nature by adopting organic farming methods, and also carefully observing the lunar and planetary cycles.

Techniques that have made it possible to achieve high quality standards of the products and to harmonize the various stages of production, so as to obtain the prestigious and rigorous Demeter certification.

Abbazia Santa Anastasia is a Charming Wine Resort strongly oriented towards ecological sustainability. The installation of a photovoltaic system of 750 square meters of silicon panels covers 80% of the company’s energy needs; the water used in the work processes in the cellar, are reused to irrigate the crops. Furthermore, a reduced use of plastic and the installation of charging stations for electric cars contribute to this green soul.

THE HISTORY
In the prestigious Abbey, built at the behest of Count Roger around 1100, the Benedictine monks settled for centuries thanks to whom the first forms of viticulture and winemaking techniques are due, as evidenced by the fascinating former stone trough and the barrel cellar.

Its name is linked to the medieval tradition as indicated by Mogavero Fina: «the abbeys were considered in the same way as fiefdoms […] taking their name from the place where they stood or from the name of a saint. In our case it was Saint Anastasia, martyr of the first Christian century: an auspicious name, etymologically meaning Resurrection».

The Abbey was the centre of culture and business in the entire Madonie mountain area until the foundation of the city of Castelbuono, when the monks abandoned the building.

Subsequently, it was after the unification of Italy that the area experienced a period of lustre, becoming an emblem of the agricultural industry thanks to the family of Baron Turrisi-Colonna.

In that period, season after season, the vigorous vineyards of Santa Anastasia began to produce quality wines, recovering the Monks’ traditions who in ancient times worked the vines which gave life to wines much appreciated by the most important baronial and bishopric canteens of Sicily.

The winemaking tradition revived in 1980 with the investment made by the eng. Francesco Lena, who acquired the surrounding land and funds, making a significant enhancement of the vineyards aiming at the production of high-quality wines, and constructing a modern cellar in harmony with the surrounding environment, with no impact on the territory.

In 1994, the wine expert Giacomo Tachis, struck by the magnificence of these places, decided to sign the wines of Abbazia Santa Anastasia, helping thus to attract the general interest of the national and international wine scene.

The entire history of Abbazia Santa Anastasia is written by a succession of important names in the history of the Italian winemaking: Giacomo Tachis was followed by Riccardo Cotarella, acknowledged master of world oenology.

Cotarella signed eleven harvests for Abbazia Santa Anastasia, thus contributing to affirming every single label of Abbazia Santa Anastasia among the most prestigious on the international wine scene. The distribution is managed by Gianfranco Lena, son of the eng. F.Lena.

Today the estate’s wines are the result of the fruitful partnership between Gianfranco Cordero, an advocate of natural production, and Stefania Lena, current agronomist and Francesco Lena’s daughter.

The love for the earth products, such as wine and oil, led the family to combine the principles of environmental sustainability with the entrepreneurial project of making Abbazia Santa Anastasia not only a pole of winemaking excellence but also a facility of charm through the construction of the current Resort expertly renovated (the renovation was followed by the architect Paola Moriconi, Francesco Lena’s wife) and inaugurated in all its magnificence in 2000.

Thanks to a scrupulous conservative restoration, Abbazia is a point of reference for those who long for a vacation characterized by the rhythms of nature, savouring in full relaxation and comfort all that Sicilian beauty is able to offer. Abbazia Santa Anastasia is an eco-resort capable of guaranteeing comfort while fully respecting the surrounding environment.

THE PARK
The 450 hectares on which Abbazia Santa Anastasia extends today include an enchanting wooded park: an amazing green mantle, divided between the territories of Castelbuono, Pollina and Geraci Siculo. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, where the Aeolian Islands can be seen on the horizon, the park is flooded with the typical vegetation of the Mediterranean scrub. A real botanical garden pampered by the sea breeze.

Splendid oak and ash woods with their magical nuances draw the typical contours of the naturalistic scenery of the Madonie mountains, where man has left clear evidence: from the remains of prehistoric times to religious buildings, and to the tracks of the Bourbon period. A space where man has had the ability to live in harmony with nature.

Guests will have the opportunity to perceive a real sense of peace and freedom, thanks to the Park where nature becomes a means of conjunction with one’s self. Witnesses of the past, some historical trails and tracks cross the park, showing off the importance that this area has had in history, both for the community of monks and for the subsequent settlement of agricultural production.

Discovering the paths already traced, mapped and equipped will make every stay a continuous emotion. Hour after hour, each step will reveal something unexpected. Among these paths, which lead from the Abbey to Zurrica and other company buildings, we point out “Passomaggio” – “Martelletto” – “Montenero” – “Zurrica”, for a total extension of about 6 km.

ROOMS & SUITES
A vacation in the heart of the Madonie mountains, immersed in a Village among medieval villages, in rooms and suites of the expertly restored ancient stone trough area, means experiencing the charm of history fully immersed in the present.

In respect of the surrounding area, at Abbazia Santa Anastasia every environment is harmoniously enhanced thanks to spaces of absolute comfort and charm. The refined restoration and the classic Madonite style are in perfect harmony with the outdoor spaces designed by nature.

Located around the central courtyard, the 29 rooms open to the romantic landscape where vineyards and hills naturally adorn the spectacular scenery.

Each room is contextualized with the Wine Resort taking its name from a vine; the motifs and decorations recall hand-painted floral subjects, the tapestries envelop the rooms with warm and welcoming colours. The characteristic furnishings with wooden ceilings and floors and the refinement of the furniture marry the everlasting charm of a timeless classic style.

The Sicilian light and warmth, the scents and sounds of nature, inebriate anyone who wants to spend a holiday dedicated to eco-sustainability without giving up the comforts offered by Abbazia Santa Anastasia. In order to reduce the impact on nature, each room has systems for reducing energy consumption and the energy produced in a natural way with solar panels.

GRAND SUITE
The Grande Suite, located in the suggestive former stone trough area in front of the Abbey, thanks to its strategic position offers a privileged view of the Aeolian Islands. Whether for an idyllic escape or to enjoy a quiet family intimacy, it is the most refined and comfortable accommodation.

Wrapped in the charm of the Madonie mountains, between history and nature, the Grande Suite, thanks to its large spaces, can accommodate up to a maximum of 5 people in a context of great refinement and maximum privacy.

The two environments allow you to spend a vacation in expertly cared for spaces and pampered by the most sophisticated comforts. The refined furniture is enriched with elements of the most authentic Sicilian tradition.

The romantic four-poster double bed adds charm to the Grande Suite and the comfortable sofa offers a corner in which to indulge in relaxation. On the mezzanine floor a French bed is available.

DELUXE ROOM
Located in the former stone trough of Abbazia, ideal for those who look for more space for themselves. Enjoying a vacation in the space of the former stone trough, right in front of the Abbey, makes the Deluxe Rooms ideal for wine-lovers who want a holiday in the history of the local wine tradition.

Elegant and spacious, from 22 to 34 square meters, the Deluxe Rooms are furnished with a comfortable sofa, where to relax reading a good book, and a refined wooden table to enjoy a cup of tea. All this framed by the soft colors of emerald green that perfectly match the elegance of the parquet.

CLASSIC ROOM
Spacious, classic furnishings and comfort for a holiday discovering the Madonie mountains. An intimate space, between 18 and 22 square meters, ideal for those who want to enjoy an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, alone or in company, to be enveloped by the timeless atmosphere, steeped in nature and history of Abbazia Santa Anastasia.

The 19 Classic Rooms, located between the ground floor and the first floor, thanks to the characteristic window of medieval memory, make it possible to admire the lush gardens coloured by the nuances of flowers and plants, and the historic courtyard walk.

Carefully furnished, some of the Classic Rooms have a king size double bed; others are also available with separate beds. There is the opportunity to add a third bed and a cot on request.

DINING
The evocations of the past meet the inebriating suggestions of Sicilian cuisine. The flavours of organic and local products marry the harmony of contrasts, skilfully expressed by Chef Alessandro Battaglia.

The culinary proposal of Abbazia Santa Anastasia enhances high quality raw material revisited in a refined key. Through the expression of the territory and our Chef’s passion, every dish is transformed into a sensory experience.

A journey through the aromas and flavours of a Sicily which, having undergone innumerable cultural influences, is one of the most popular cuisines in the world.

Immersed in history and nature, in the two restaurants of our charming Relais, your lunch and dinner turn into an opportunity to appreciate the taste and essence of a land steeped in myth and spectacular beauty.

Experience, research and love for the local territory outline the mastery of the young Chef Alessandro Battaglia. After approaching the fascinating universe of cuisine in his territory of origin, namely the Madonie mountains, Chef Alessandro Battaglia was able to enrich his knowledge in prestigious Sicilian and international places of great importance.

Today, by carefully selecting local products, Abbazia Santa Anastasia offers experiences where simplicity meets the art of haute cuisine. Drawing inspiration from the natural setting offered by the suggestive atmosphere of the Relais, each dish prepared by the Chef enhances the products of the garden and the refined material of the territory.

A refined contrast of flavours and aromas, thanks to his creative flair, make up a mosaic of colours and scents that faithfully portray the soul of Abbazia Santa Anastasia.

LA CORTE DELL’ABATE RESTAURANT
The refined restaurant La Corte dell’Abate is located in the historic space of the ancient cellars, where the friars once kept the wine in the traditional barrel cellar.

La Corte dell’Abate is the gourmet expression of an authentic Sicilian tradition, rich in cultural and historical influences, which has its roots in the cuisine of the Monsù. This corner, steeped in an infinite history where the culinary art is part of a context of great charm, can accommodate up to 120 guests.

Inside, La Corte dell’Abate is articulated on two levels. From the upper one with its ancient arches, you can admire the magnificence of the old cellars on the floor below

An enchanting scenery, perfect frame for magical events and to enjoy unforgettable moments. In periods of mild climate, the intimate and suggestive outdoor area with its ancient drinking trough can accommodate about 60 guests. It offers the opportunity to enjoy an elegant and romantic dinner in a charming and unique setting.

PASSIONI & TENTAZIONI RESTAURANT
In one of the most idyllic corners of the Relais, nestled between the cellar and the enchanting Abbey, Passioni e Tentazioni is the restaurant dedicated to a “simpler” gastronomic proposal where you can savour the taste of informal elegance.

Thanks to its location overlooking the wonderful Aeolian Islands, Passioni e Tantazioni creates the ideal atmosphere to start the day in the best possible way. In fact, here is where breakfast is served.

Passioni e Tentazioni means enjoying a light lunch in total relaxation in the summer without sacrificing taste, or in the evening hosting exclusive events immersed in the magical aura of this corner steeped in charm.

Each dish in Passioni e Tentazioni is expertly cared for in the wake of the most authentic tradition thanks to the constant inspiration of Chef Alessandro Battaglia, who manages to express the identity of Abbazia Santa Anastasia with extreme dedication.

By giving value to the Sicilian raw material and to the products of our garden, the menu of Passioni e Tentazioni offers different daily proposals respecting the seasonality of the foods.

THE FIREPLACE ROOM
For private or business meetings that require exclusivity, the Focolaio di Ruggero is the peculiar room of Abbazia Santa Anastasia that opens up to an intimate atmosphere. In winter, the fireplace gives the entire space an enveloping aura, a timeless charm of a resort of medieval memory surrounded by sumptuous vineyards and picturesque views.

It can accommodate up to a maximum of thirty guests, whether for a private aperitif or a business lunch. The ancient splendour becomes a magical setting for exclusive moments inebriated by the scent of a magnificent past. The attention to detail and meticulous service bestow the Focolaio di Ruggero a magic exclusivity.

FROM THE ORGANIC GARDEN
The attention to the raw material and the respect for the land inspire the philosophy of our Chef in the use of products from the organic garden of Abbazia Santa Anastasia. The selection of genuine local products is part of the choice of a stay where food, from breakfast to dinner, is in perfect harmony with the surroundings and nature is the protagonist.

Harmony of authentic flavours and a constant aesthetic research alternate following the cycle of seasonality for a succession of quality and freshness. Every product is collected and processed to offer the palate the taste of flavours by now lost in the logic of large-scale distribution and intensive cultivation.

This kind of healthy philosophy allows you to appreciate various vegetarian proposals by capturing the aromas and flavours of a territory deeply linked to its land and its origins.

THE MENU
The traditional territorial elements blend wisely in Chef Alessandro Battaglia’s dishes. Thanks to his considerable experience in prestigious Sicilian places and luxury, internationally renowned restaurants, the young chef is able to narrate with extreme care and in a gourmet key, the flavours and aromas of the most authentic Sicily.

The excellence of local products inspires the preparation of some of the most popular dishes such asMaialino al passito con carote e manna (Pork stewed in raisin wine with carrots and manna), or the Baccalà in crosta di panelle mantecato al finocchietto e spuma di ragusano (Cod in chickpea crust creamed with fennel and Ragusano cheese foam).

Following the spirit of the Relais that aims at the exaltation of a fascinating past and the achievement of total harmony with nature, each dish is presented as a masterpiece. A continuous revelation where through the seasonality of the products from our lands, the taste of simplicity marries the harmony of flavours.

THE WINE LIST
The authentic and refined flavours of our cuisine are enhanced by the quality of the natural wines of Abbazia Santa Anastasia, which are the result of the encounter between Benedictine tradition and modern winemaking techniques.

Through evocative contrasts, spirituality and pleasure combine to sealing a love marriage between food and wine, in total respect for nature. From the bubbles produced with native grapes to the great reds, each label contributes, sip after sip, to writing a verse of this poem.

EVENTS
In a charming location, where history and nature represent the stage for refined events, every special moment at Abbazia Santa Anastasia turns into an exclusive play.

For a couple wishing to find a magical place to host the best day of their life, or for a company looking for a private setting to organize a business event, Abbazia offers the utmost attention and exclusive services. The enveloping charm of an ancient past meets, in the different areas of our Relais, the atmosphere in harmony with any needs.

Extraordinary corners, surrounded by vineyards and a peaceful nature, take shape to make your wishes come true. At any time of the year, you can write the most beautiful pages in your life full of joy. Enchanting places, fabrics of pure beauty will leave indelible memories in the heart and mind.

COOKING CLASS
In Sicily, food represents one of the pillars of that culture which is expressed in the art of good living. Immerse yourself in this immense and varied gastronomic heritage, grasp its nuances, this will help enrich the bouquet of emotions experienced within the Relais.

Abbazia Santa Anastasia offers a sensory walk to discover local products and their use in the kitchen, thanks to the preparation of the most authentic recipes that the Sicilian tradition preserves, handed down from generation to generation.

History and culture have handed down an explosion of flavours to the Madonie area through a mosaic of aromas and sensations that attract palates from all over the world. In harmony with the magical and rural philosophy that animates Abbazia, it will be possible to live a unique experience in contact with our land and its profound values.

WINE & NATURE IN SICILY
In the wake of a historical and oenological tradition with roots in the Middle Ages, thanks to the painstaking work of the Benedictine Monks, the wines produced in Abbazia Santa Anastasia are the perfect synthesis of the ancestral harmony between man and nature.

A tradition aimed at total respect for nature and the environment under the aegis of eco-sustainability. Expression of a unique and exclusive ecosystem, each label tells the identity of the grape, enhancing the characteristics of the terroir in its own organoleptic nuances.

The nature around Abbazia Santa Anastasia offers unique pedoclimatic conditions that give the wines finesse and elegance, and everything that the vineyard needs.

For over a decade, the natural characteristics of each grape variety grown here have been supported by the use of biological techniques and biodynamic technologies, aiming at the use of materials present in nature to fertilize the land and the observation of lunar cycles to mark the various stages of cultivation.

Thanks to the respect of a rigorous disciplinary, Abbazia Santa Anastasia has received the prestigious Demeter International certification.

MEDIEVAL CELLAR
Giacomo Tachis’ adage summarizes the authenticity and the man-nature symbiosis that animate the winemaking philosophy of Abbazia Santa Anastasia.

Thanks to the visionary Francesco Lena, by the end of the 1980s, this “human interpretation of grape” was made possible through the revaluation of wine growing, and precisely in that territory which in the past was the centre of cultural interest of the entire Madonie area.

Season after season, thanks to a skilful restoration work, the Abbey returned to its ancient charm; at the same time the wine production began to move more and more towards higher quality wines.

THE WINEMAKERS
The undisputed master of world oenology, Giacomo Tachis, who gave so much to Sicily, in the 90s contributed to turning the vineyards of this small patch of land again more flourishing and generous, a legacy of the meticulous work done in the centuries ago by the Theatine and Benedictine monks.

The teachings of the master Tachis, and of another pillar of oenology such as Riccardo Cotarella, were aimed at respect for the environment and the concept of sustainability that today places the Cantina di Abbazia Santa Anastasia at the forefront in the panorama of organic and biodynamic production.

A NATURAL CELLAR
Nature dictated the directions for the construction of the modern cellar: a perfect combination of past and present. It was enlarged in the 2000s, and has thermo-conditioned rooms with sophisticated wine-making equipment.

Barriques, large French oak barrels, and vats in vitrified concrete and steel coexist with their different shades and qualities to refine and age the grapes, enhancing and supporting the specificities of each grape variety.

Here where the wines rest, each material is entirely natural and in harmony with the ecosystem of the Relais. As well for the roofing particular attention was paid to the materials used: absorbent panels made of mineralized wood and mixed with magnesite at high temperature.

THE TERROIR
The character and uniqueness of the wines produced by Abbazia Santa Anastasia represent the result of the alchemy that binds the locally cultivated vines to the characteristics of the soil, the microclimate and the production philosophy.

The notion of Terroir originates from the indissoluble intertwining of these aspects, a concept that goes far beyond the meaning of territory. Terroir is the exclusivity of unique micro-climatic conditions and the intervention of man in the cycle of nature.

The native grapes such as Catarratto and the great international vines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, find space in vineyards spread over 65 hectares on a hilly terrain in the heart of the Madonie Park at an altitude between 200 and 500 meters above sea level.

The hectares of vines cover the area of Contrada Santa Anastasia. The soil is mainly composed of clay: a material that gives great structure, elegance, and a wide range of fine scents. Each single plot, with its unique chemical compositions, gives the bunches different characteristics and complex and varied organoleptic nuances.

The high quality of the Abbazia Santa Anastasia labels comes from the excellence of the grapes and the meticulous work carried out in the vineyards through the use of natural fertilizers and correct growing techniques for each vine.

Together with the gentle breeze of the Mediterranean Sea and the biological and biodynamic techniques, this terroir strongly influences the quality of the wines of Abbazia Santa Anastasia, enhancing its pleasantness.

ORGANIC & BIODYNAMIC WINES
Thanks to the biological approach integrated with biodynamic techniques and the particular microclimatic conditions, the award-winning wines of Abbazia Santa Anastasia present themselves as a sincere expression of the terroir.

From allochthonous to native varieties, every sip of wine is an authentic witness of the winemaking tradition of the past. From bubbles to great reds, each label narrates a tradition steeped in strong identity and respect for the land.

Under the aegis of environmental sustainability, Abbazia Santa Anastasia chooses organic and biodynamic cultivation methods for its wine production.

The term “biodynamics” expresses two meanings. “Bio” indicates that we act respecting the laws of life, “dynamic” emphasizes that we strongly consider the forces that act in organic substances. Biodynamic agriculture has its roots in 1924 when the Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner developed a new way of working, observing and experiencing the earth.

WINE & OIL TASTING COURSE
With organized itineraries for guests, both internal and external to the accommodation, you will be seduced by the beauty of the vineyards, capturing the magic of Nature’s cyclical nature. The guided tours of the vineyards and the cellar of Abbazia Santa Anastasia will culminate with the tasting of a selection of our finest labels.

In addition to the inebriating tasting of the different labels, for those wishing to have an even more exclusive experience, thanks to the company’s staff and upon reservation, it is also possible to learn tasting techniques like a true sommelier.

Learning to appreciate a wine, in fact, means grasping every nuance of each organoleptic aspect. From visual analysis to that of taste and smell. Each glass of wine reveals a varied range of scents, with study and feeling, in each glass you can grasp the essence of the terroir of the wines of Abbazia Santa Anastasia.

A tasting course will take you on an inebriating sensory and learning journey: an authentic Wine Experience in the characteristic Sala del Vino. Thanks to the preparation of our highly qualified staff, you will be able to approach the techniques of a correct tasting.

THE SICILIAN BLACK BEE
The Madonite territory is characterized by a strong naturalistic imprint from the horticultural point of view. Carlo Amodeo, the prince of the Sicilian Black Bee, who saved this species from extinction, contributed to safeguard and protect nature and its ecosystem.

Thanks to the surrounding luxuriant nature, Abbazia Santa Anastasia has become the ideal habitat for several hives scattered especially around the vineyard. To date, these bees are guests of the animal world who live with the guests of our Charming Wine Resort in the greenest places of the Abbey, such as in the corner of “Passioni e Tentazioni” or in the shade of the luxuriant plants that adorn the Resort.

The honey that the Sicilian black bees produce is currently a Slow Food praesidium and contributes to enriching with taste and energy the savoury and healthy breakfast offered every morning.

THE PARK
The 450 hectares on which Abbazia Santa Anastasia extends today include an enchanting wooded park: an amazing green mantle, divided between the territories of Castelbuono, Pollina and Geraci Siculo.

Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, where the Aeolian Islands can be seen on the horizon, the park is flooded with the typical vegetation of the Mediterranean scrub. A real botanical garden pampered by the sea breeze.

Splendid oak and ash woods with their magical nuances draw the typical contours of the naturalistic scenery of the Madonie mountains, where man has left clear evidence: from the remains of prehistoric times to religious buildings, and to the tracks of the Bourbon period. A space where man has had the ability to live in harmony with nature.

Guests will have the opportunity to perceive a real sense of peace and freedom, thanks to the Park where nature becomes a means of conjunction with one’s self.

Witnesses of the past, some historical trails and tracks cross the park, showing off the importance that this area has had in history, both for the community of monks and for the subsequent settlement of agricultural production.

Discovering the paths already traced, mapped and equipped will make every stay a continuous emotion. Hour after hour, each step will reveal something unexpected. Among these paths, which lead from the Abbey to Zurrica and other company buildings, we point out “Passomaggio” – “Martelletto” – “Montenero” – “Zurrica”, for a total extension of about 6 km.

THE LAKE
The charm of the history that surrounds Abbazia Santa Anastasia meets the charm of nature through a succession of discoveries and pleasant sensations. Among these, the thrill of being able to take a romantic walk and admire the moonlight reflected in the natural lake near the resort, is unique.

An area of ancestral beauty from where the water comes to maintain the vineyards. For those who want to venture to higher levels, a romantic vantage point allows to admire its beauty.

The feeling of peace that you breathe at the lake makes this spot perfect for a refreshing break after a walk along one of the park’s paths. The experience of the lake turns into the discovery of aquatic and terrestrial fauna and the desire to reconcile with nature by practicing different activities.

Around this magical stretch of water, guests can go jogging and do sport fishing, the natural lake allows you to combine these passions with a vacation in perfect harmony with nature.

THE SWIMMING POOL 
From a breath-taking terrace from which you can enjoy an enchanting panorama, dotted with vineyards, the swimming pool is the ideal corner to spend a day in total relaxation enjoying the quiet of the surrounding nature. Diving into the pool will be a rejuvenating moment thanks to the hydromassage corner. Moments of pleasure that revive soul and spirit.

The pool can be used in complete serenity by members of the whole family, thanks to its stepped structure to allow safe access for children. Maximum depth of 1.7 meters. A special children’s playground is available in the area nearby.

SOLARIUM & POOL BAR
Let yourself be kissed by the rays of the warm Sicilian sun lying comfortably in the solarium area. The pool bar service and the offer of a menu designed for light lunches, with refreshing cocktails, delicious club sandwiches and other delights, will help you enjoy the charm of the pool area.

In this area of the Relais you can sip a glass of our wines for a suggestive aperitif at sunset by the pool and indulge in moments of absolute relaxation by accompanying the wines of Abbazia Santa Anastasia with cold cuts and cheeses, carefully selected from typical Sicilian products, particularly those coming from the territory of the Madonie.

THE MEDIEVAL CHURCH
Inside the Abbazia Santa Anastasia, right by the courtyard, stands a medieval church, founded together with the main complex around 1100, by the will of Count Roger. The Abbey and the Medieval Church are mentioned in various historical documents. Among these, in terms of importance, is worth mentioning the Bull of Pope Eugene III of 24 February 1151.

The charm of the past, surrounded by the beauty of nature, relives in this evocative space to celebrate the most important events of the liturgical year. The Holy Mass of Christmas and Easter take on a unique sumptuousness and allow for a recollection that amplifies the spirituality of the celebration.

The church of the abbey is also the ideal place to renew the wedding vows: the Curia allows to celebrate mass for a silver or a golden wedding. The ancient Church of Abbazia Santa Anastasia is also the perfect place for civil weddings, and the enchanting tree-lined garden with gazebo can accommodate up to a maximum of one hundred guests.

THE MADONIE MOUNTAINS
The Madonie mountains represent one of the most interesting areas of Sicily. It is a short mountain ridge in the Tyrrhenian area of the island, which reaches the sea. This territory is a treasure to be discovered, where natural paths and picturesque villages intertwine to weave a story of local history and traditions.

Immersing yourself in the magic of the Madonie is a totalizing experience: the suspended charm of history and poetic suggestions of nature will be waiting for you at every glimpse of the landscape.

From sites of historical and cultural interest to nature trails, the Madonie mountains offer all year round itineraries full of emotions aimed at discovering the most authentic Sicily.

CASTELBUONO
Among ash and chestnut woods and buildings that bear witness to a fascinating past, stands the village of Castelbuono, on the slopes of Colle Milocca, reachable in less than twenty minutes by car from the Abbazia Santa Anastasia.

In the medieval period the village came under the jurisdiction of the Benedictine monastery of Lipari and around 1316 Count Francesco di Ventimiglia on the hill of S. Pietro, in the then village Ypsigro, built that splendid castle that gave prestige to the small urban centre.

From Piazza Margherita, walking along the Via Sant’Anna and crossing the arch of the same name, between the view of the sinuous and austere mountains, you can reach the foot of the Ventimiglia Castle with its Arab-Norman profile.

Inside it is possible to visit the civic museum, home to a permanent art gallery, and the Baroque Palatine Chapel, where the skull of St. Anna, patron saint of the city, is preserved. For lovers of natural sciences visiting Castelbuono, a visit to the naturalistic museum Minà Palumbo is a must.

Over the centuries the village was inhabited by rich families. These contributed to the cultural and economic development of the country, by exporting the manna to the nearby city of Palermo. Manna is a natural resin, a sugary substance that is extracted from the ash tree, and is the most precious asset that nature has offered to Castelbuono.

All the processing notions have been transmitted from generation to generation. Known for its emollient properties, manna today is a product of excellence used in the food and wine sectors.

Slow Food Presidium manna is the main ingredient for the preparation of exquisite desserts, biscuits and panettone that delight the palate and envelop the spirit. Castelbuono is also a pole of attraction for music lovers, especially of the indie rock genre and thanks to the fame gained over the years by the Ypsigrock boutique festival.

THE MEDIEVAL VILLAGE
Abbazia Santa Anastasia, historically the cultural and economic forge of the Madonie mountains, is located in the heart of one of the most secret areas of Sicily. The Madonie region extends between the cities of Scillato and Castelbuono, from Pollina to the Imera rivers, which descend to the coast of Cefalù.

The Madonie Natural Park, part of the European Geopark network to which more than twenty geological parks all over the world adhere, includes 15 municipalities in the province of Palermo.

Among these are worth mentioning the villages of Petralia Sottana, Petralia Soprana, Polizzi Generosa, Gangi, Geraci Siculo. These urban jewels raise towards the sky, steeped in history and tradition and fascinating beauty. For those who love tranquillity and romantic views these villages exert a remarkable charisma.

The generous nature, to be admired from the viewpoints of the medieval villages, offers unique views. Looking out from the ramparts reaching into infinity, the eye captures the beauty of the Sicilian hinterland, reaches the summit of Mount Etna and the Aeolian Islands with a glance.

From an architectural and urbanistic point of view, the Middle Ages and the Bourbon period have bestowed this territory large ecclesiastical and military buildings.

Ample space is reserved to the culinary traditions of the past and the products that have marked its history, besides the manna from Castelbuono think of the hazelnuts from Polizzi or the oil from Petralia Sottana.

From autumn to winter you can discover the genuine flavours of ancient Sicily among the mountain markets and the countryside. The harsh winter climate of the Madonie mountains whitens the ridge offering a very suggestive landscape. For lovers of winter sports Piano Battaglia is a destination for skiers.

The extraordinary landscapes that smell of Mediterranean scrub are ideal for those who love trekking, or horse riding along natural paths. Travelers in search of the warmth of the Sicilian sun and fascinating heights, can dive into the beauty of the village of Cefalù and its sea, and visit Pizzo Carbonara, the highest Sicilian mountain after Mount Etna.

CEFALU’
Kephaloidion, the Greek name of the city, is one of the most beautiful seaside villages in Italy that stands out for its urban liveability and historical and naturalistic interest. The history of Cefalù embraces myths and centuries of culture.

A Greek myth tells of the sad love of the beautiful shepherd Dafni, the Sicilian Orpheus. Blinded by an enraged Juno for having betrayed his daughter Echenais, he was transformed by a merciful god Mercury into the imposing precipitous rock that dominates Cefalù and whose shape gave the city its name.

Thanks to its artistic and cultural heritage, Cefalù has been included by Unesco within the Arab-Norman itinerary including Cefalù, Palermo, Monreale and neighbouring sites. Crossroads of civilizations, from the Greeks to the Romans, passing through the Arabs and the Normans, it develops around the Cathedral.

Cefalù offers splendid walks for recreation and art discovery, such as a visit to the Mandralisca Museum, and in the summer period, the opportunity to spend a day at the beach immersing yourself in the mythical and sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

There are several romantic glimpses of Cefalù that have been the set for famous films in the history of cinema. Like the marvellous Porta Marina with its Gothic arch, the only remaining gate of the four that once guaranteed access to the city.

The arch overlooks the colourful fishermen’s quarter where the scenes of the famous film “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso” by Giuseppe Tornatore were shot. Then we remember the 1954 film “Vacanze d’amore” with prestigious artists of the time such as Walter Chiari and Domenico Modugno, “A ciascuno il suo” with Gian Maria Volontè of 1967 and the aforementioned masterpiece by Tornatore from 1988.

THE SALT CAVES
In Petralia Soprana, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, it is possible to visit a place full of charm kept in the bowels of the earth. The Museo di Arte Contemporanea Sotto Sale (MACSS) is a particular and unique location.

The MACSS with its rock salt sculptures represents an exemplary museum of contemporary art in a still active mine. Formed six million years ago, following particular geological events and the drying up of the Mediterranean Sea, this almost one mile long deposit of pure rock salt is a magical place.

Just close your eyes to hear the noise of the miners engaged in the extraction of salt. Visitors will be able to discover the installations and decipher the message that each artist wanted to convey through their artwork. Between statues and tunnels the natural matter here turns into artistic matter.

THE GORGES OF TIBERIUS
The magnificence of the Madonie Natural Park is revealed through paths of amazing beauty. The mountain ridge with its numerous springs reflects an authentic and little known Sicily, such as “’U Mirìcu”, a small canyon located in the eastern area, better known as “Gole di Tiberio”.

For its significant geomorphology, the gorges have been recognized as a Geopark and Unesco world heritage. The Gorges of Tiberius are located along the Pollina river a few miles from the sea, between the towns of San Mauro Castelverde and Castelbuono.

The gorges take their name from the hamlet of Tiberio in the municipality of San Mauro, of noble origins but today almost deserted. An uncontaminated place designed by water and rock. Plunge into pristine and wild vegetation surrounded by a suggestive silence.

Rooms: 29

Price: from 111 EUR per night

Source: www.abbaziasantanastasia.com