IntroductionCaltanissetta, the capital of the depressed western interior, is, however, the largest. Unfortunately bad luck and mafia’s influence have struck the region and the town in particular damaging profoundly its reputation.
The
Saracens established here first. It was taken by the Normans in the 11th century. The WWII destructed it, reason why there is not much to see today.
Formerly its economy was based on the sulphur mining which was later replaced by potassium and magnesium exploitation.
Caltanissetta is a core transport centre in the western interior, therefore a must pass.
What to See and DoThe
tourist information office is on Viale Conte Testasecca about 300 metres from the railway station. Off the railway station is the
Museo Archeologico (Via Colaianni) which houses principally prehistoric pieces, such as Bronze Age figurines, vases, tools and ceramics of the island. Among its artefacts are findings of a necropolis called the Mountain of Death.
Its main square
Piazza Garibaldi is lorded over by the town hall and its cathedral, a pastiche of late-
Renaissance style and baroque, modified in the 19th century and housing Guglielmo
Borremans’ frescoes.
Beautiful
views can be admired from the scarce vestiges of the
Castello di Pietrarossa. It is located in spitting distance of Piazza Garibaldi.
Where to Eat and DrinkOn Corso Umberto I is
Boccon di Vino a wine bar and trattoria. You can choose nibbles and from its wine list or have some good dishes from its daily changing menu at good prices.
Head for Viale Sicilia for local specialities prepared with expertise at
Cortese.
Vicolo Duomo (Piazza Garibaldi) is an outstanding restaurant, following the Slow Food movement and catering for a numerous clientele.
How to Get to/awayBY BUS: To Agrigento (length: 1 ¼ hours, services: 10 a day from Mon-Sat), to Catania (length: 1 ½ hours, services: 9 a day from Mon-Sat). Bus tickets are purchased opposite the bus station. To Enna (length: 1 hour, services: 5 a day from Mon-Sat). Tickets are sold in the terminal café. To Piazza Armerina (length: 1 hour, services: 3 a day from Mon-Sat). Tickets are sold on the journey.
BY TRAIN: to /from Agrigento (length: 1 ½ hours, services 10 a day), to from Enna (length: 40 minutes, services: 7 a day).
