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Acireale (Italian: [ˌatʃireˈaːle]; Sicilian: Jaciriali, locally shortened to Jaci or Aci) is a coastal city and municipality in the north-east of the Metropolitan City of Catania in the autonomous region of Sicily in Italy, at the foot of Mount Etna, on the coast facing the Ionian Sea. With a population of 50,579, it is the second-largest municipality in the metropolitan city.[2]

Key Information

It is home to numerous churches, including the Neo-Gothic St. Pietro's Basilica, St. Sebastiano's Basilica in the Sicilian Baroque style, and the 17th century Acireale Cathedral, and a seminary, for the training of priests. Acireale is also noted for its art and paintings: the oldest academy in Sicily, the Accademia di scienze, lettere e belle arti degli Zelanti e dei Dafnici, is located here.

History

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18th-century Musmeci Palazzo, located in Piazza San Domenico.

According to tradition, the city's origins trace back to Xiphonia, a mysterious Greek city whose location is unknown. In Roman times, there existed another Greek town, Akis, which was involved in the Punic Wars. In Ovid's Metamorphoses, there is a great love between Ā́cis, the spirit of the Ā́cis River, and Galatea the sea-nymph. According to mythology, the tears of Galatea after the death of Ā́cis gave birth to the Ā́cis River, Fiume di Jaci, flowing past Acireale (the ancient Akis or Acium).[3] The Romans called the town Acium, and it was on the main road from Catana to Tauromenium.[4] The Romans used the thermal springs located here.[3]

In the Middle Ages, the town expanded around the castle (now part of Aci Castello), known as Jachium under the Byzantines, as Al-Yāj (الياج) under the Arabs, and, later, as Aquilia. The potent 1169 Sicily earthquake scattered the population of the city farther into the mainland, divided between the numerous boroughs of Aci. Another town, Aquilia Nova ("New Aquilia"), was founded in the late 14th century further north, creating the nucleus of what is now Acireale. The only extant architectural remnant of this medieval town is Gothic-Lombard-style portal of the church of Sant'Antonio di Padova.

Church of San Domenico. After the 1693 Sicily earthquake, the original 16th-century church was refurbished in the 18th century in neoclassical style

In the 16th century, Emperor Charles V freed the city from feudal ties, creating it as a Crown commune. In the late 16th century, the town had between 6,000 and 7,000 inhabitants. The most ancient document mentioning the Carnival of Acireale dates to 1594. The town expanded its role as a trade center (it was granted the right to hold a Free Market or Fiera Franca) and received numerous new edifices.

Acireale was nearly destroyed by the massive 1693 Sicily earthquake, which substantially halted its economic growth, and required near-complete reconstruction of all the buildings. During the Expedition of the Thousand in 1861, led by Garibaldi and which liberated Sicily from the rule of the Bourbon Kingdom of Napoli, Acireale was the first town to rebel against the Neapolitan rule. In 1941, the town was bombed by the Allies, resulting in many civilian casualties.[citation needed]

Demographics

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As of 2025, the municipality has a population of 50,579, of whom 48.7% are male and 51.3% are female. Minors make up 15.2% of the population, and pensioners make up 23.7%, compared to the Italian average of 14.9% minors and 24.7% pensioners.[2]

Historical population
YearPop.±%
186130,785—    
187132,042+4.1%
188135,321+10.2%
190131,495−10.8%
191131,975+1.5%
192131,372−1.9%
193134,332+9.4%
193636,871+7.4%
YearPop.±%
195139,439+7.0%
196143,752+10.9%
197147,122+7.7%
198148,493+2.9%
199146,199−4.7%
200150,190+8.6%
201151,456+2.5%
202150,735−1.4%
Source: ISTAT[5][6]
Centuripe Ware Lekanis, Hetjens-Museum, Düsseldorf

Education

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The city had grown in the second half of the 19th century as a "City of Studies" because there was a heritage of several boarding schools and institutions of higher education that today can be considered lost in the absence of a university campus. In Acireale there are several Secondary schools, public and private, divided between high schools, technical and professional institutes, which are also largely frequented by students from neighboring municipalities.

Main Sights

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Secular Sites and Buildings

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  • Villa Belvedere and Parco delle Terme, two large public parks and "La Timpa", a natural reserve overlooking the Ionian Sea, offer great nature sights.
  • Piazza Duomo, with the twin churches of the Acireale Cathedral and Santi Pietro e Paolo, is in the main square of the city.
  • Palazzo della Città, Acireale
  • Palazzo Pennisi
  • Palazzo Modò, which dates from the 17th century
  • Palazzo Musmeci dating from the 18th century.
  • Commercial city center is primarily located in the streets including and adjacent to Corso Umberto and Corso Italia, which are the city's principal thoroughfares.
  • Fortezza del Tocco, a 16th-century fort, has been converted to a nature reserve.
Old noble palazzo featuring the characteristic balconies with the grotesque masks made of lava rock
Floats during the carnival season.
  • Zelantea Library (Biblioteca) and Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Zelantea): originate from collections and a society of scholars begun in the seventeenth century. Both are housed in a neoclassical palace built in the nineteenth century by the engineer Mariano Panebianco, which holds some collections of art and ancient texts.
  • Museum of peasant traditions of Aci Platani: houses a reconstruction of a typical house of an Etnean peasant family of the nineteenth century.
  • Uniform Museum: housed in the Palazzo del Comune in Piazza Duomo, holds a collection of historical uniforms from the end of the eighteenth century.
  • Museum of the Opera dei Pupi in Via Alessi.
  • Carnival Museum: located inside the Palazzo del Turismo in via Ruggero Settimo, 11.
  • Floristella Monetary: numismatic collection of Agostino Pennisi of Floristella currently located at the Regional Archaeological Museum of Syracuse and is waiting for a location in the city.
  • Teatro dell'Opera dei Pupi of Capomulini: concentrates in the exhibition spaces the important tradition of the Acesis puppeteers passed on for generations (and recognized, along with the other Sicilian puppeteer traditions, as intangible heritage of humanity by UNESCO).
  • Diocesan Museum in via Genuardi.

Religious sites

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Culture

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Myths and legends

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In Acireale history is often accompanied by legend, especially in the myth of its foundation. Among the legends Acis and Galatea, the adventure of Odysseus against the cyclops Polyphemus, a forest born from the revenge of Zeus against the giants, and a legend related to the flight of the Carthaginian army before a lava flow of the Mount Etna.

The paronymal legend, from which the name of the city and of the hamlets would originate, was the idyll of love between Acis and Galatea, and is introduced by Ovid in the Metamorphoses, by Theocritus, by Virgil, by Posidippus, by Philoxenus, by Callimachus, by Hermenenattes and by Euphorion.

The beautiful nymph Galatea was in love with the shepherd Acis. Their love was thwarted by Polyphemus, a terrible cyclops who, enraged by jealousy, threw a stone at the shepherd boy, causing his death. The nymph, desperate for the loss of Acis, begged the gods to bring him back to life and they, accepting her prayers, transformed the shepherd into an eternal river, called Jaci (Akis). The river Jaci, which has an unknown underground path and is part of the rich Etnean drainage system, flows both in the locality Acque grandi ("acquaranni") between Acireale and Capomulini, under a massive lava bank, and in the village of Santa Maria la Scala (Testa di l’acqua), at the "Molino di Miuccio", with crystal clear and freezing water, as well as north of the district of Santa Caterina (Acqu'e ferru) where it has a characteristic reddish effect, caused by the presence of Iron oxides, that in the popular belief, based on the Ovidian verses, is attributed to the blood of Acis ("u sangu di Jaci", in Sicilian)

In the Villa Belvedere is exhibited a sculptural group of Acis and Galatea, a marble copy made on the pantograph on the model in patinated plaster displayed at the Zelantea Library, the work of Rosario Anastasi of 1846, which represents the epilogue of the myth, the last act, when Galatea, with her dramatic invocation to the gods, wants to resurrect her beloved Acis killed by a stone thrown by Polyphemus.

Cuisine

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The granita, an excellent refreshment from the summer mugginess, in Acireale is considered almost a ritual. Probably born from the tradition of the «nevaroli» who transported the snow from the Etna up to the seashore when the refrigerator did not yet exist, in the city the invention of the granita is attributed to the ingenious Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli from Acitrezza that, with the café «le Procope», had much success in 17th-century Paris.

Coffee-almond flavored granita, served with a Sicilian brioche and a cornetto.

Generally, it is served in its basic almond flavored recipe and accompanied by a brioche. Lemon granita is also very common. Another typical food of the Acesis summer is seltzer with lemon and salt, sold at the numerous kiosks that are found in the streets of the city.

In addition, the pastries are renowned, in which the zeppole of rice with honey (also called crispelle di San Giuseppe in other municipalities), the cannoli filled with chocolate cream, white cream or ricotta, small pastry products and artisan gelato are its crowned jewels and the diners with fresh baked goods (arancini, "cartocciate", "cipolline" etc.) as well as sweet breakfast products (croissants, panzerotti, "raviole" filled with ricotta cheese, "iris" filled with chocolate cream or white cream). In the fishing villages there are many restaurants that offer menus based only on fresh fish.

Acireale, along with its district, is also known for the Etna Lemon, which in October 2020 obtained the prestigious recognition I.G.P. by the European Union.

Events

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Acireale houses costumes and floats parades during the carnival season.

Twin towns – sister cities

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Acireale is twinned with:

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Acireale

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Acireale is a coastal in the , eastern , , situated on a lava plateau at the foot of Mount Etna and overlooking the , renowned for its elaborate , thermal spas, and annual carnival festivities. With a population of approximately 50,579 as of 2024, it spans 40 square kilometers at an elevation of about 161 meters, serving as a key blending natural beauty with . The town's history traces back to ancient Greek mythology, linked to the legend of , with origins as the Roman settlement of Akis and medieval fortifications against pirate raids; it was officially named Acireale in the by King and largely rebuilt in the late style following the devastating 1693 earthquake. Economically, Acireale thrives on , particularly and fruit production, alongside related industries, stone quarrying, extraction, and centered on its baths and coastal . Notable landmarks include the Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta, the Basilica of Santi Pietro e Paolo, and the Zelantea Library, all exemplifying artistry, while the nearby fishing village of Santa Maria La Scala features a spring tied to local myths. The Carnevale di Acireale, one of Italy's most celebrated carnivals, draws visitors each or with elaborate floats, parades, and cultural events, highlighting the town's vibrant community spirit. Its strategic position also makes it an ideal base for exploring Mount Etna and nearby cities like and .

Geography

Location and environment

Acireale is situated in eastern , , at coordinates 37°37′N 15°10′E, with an elevation of approximately 170 meters above sea level. The city occupies terraces overlooking the , positioned about 12 kilometers northeast of and at the eastern base of Mount Etna, whose snow-capped summit is prominently visible from much of the urban area. Access to the coastline is provided through nearby coastal hamlets, including the beach at Santa Tecla, characterized by rocky coves and clear waters formed by ancient lava flows. The surrounding topography features volcanic formations, notably the La Timpa Nature Reserve, a special spanning lava flows dating back around 200,000 years, where steep escarpments drop toward the sea and support Mediterranean maquis vegetation, including maquis shrubs and endemic plants adapted to the rocky terrain. Further enhancing the natural environment are the sulfur springs at Santa Venera al Pozzo, an near the city featuring thermal waters with therapeutic properties known since Roman times, emerging from mineral-rich sources. Acireale's location contributes to its reputation as a climatic resort, benefiting from moderating sea breezes off the and the fertile volcanic soils derived from Etna's eruptions, which enrich the land with minerals and support lush vegetation. However, the region faces seismic risks due to its proximity to active fault lines, as evidenced by the devastating 1693 that largely destroyed the city and prompted its reconstruction in the distinctive style seen today.

Climate

Acireale experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csa), characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. This classification reflects the region's temperate conditions with the hottest month exceeding 22°C on average and at least four months above 10°C, alongside a pronounced summer drought. The annual mean temperature is approximately 17.8°C, with summer highs reaching up to 30°C in July and August, and winter lows around 8°C in January. Daytime temperatures in the warmest months often hover between 26°C and 30°C, while nighttime lows in winter rarely drop below 6°C, providing a comfortable range year-round. Annual precipitation totals about 590 mm, concentrated primarily in autumn and winter, with being the wettest month at around 105 mm. Summers are notably dry, with receiving as little as 12 mm, and relative remains moderate at 64-76% throughout the year, influenced by the that keeps levels lower than in inland areas. The climate is moderated by Acireale's proximity to the , which tempers extremes and promotes consistent mildness, while the elevation of nearby Mount Etna contributes to occasional volcanic ashfall that can temporarily affect air quality. These factors, combined with over 2,500 hours of sunshine annually—peaking at 10.5 hours per day in —enhance its suitability as a destination, further supported by natural springs emerging at approximately 22°C that bolster spa tourism.

History

Origins and medieval period

The origins of Acireale trace back to ancient colonization in eastern , where the nearby settlement of Xiphonia is attested as a port town by the 3rd century BCE, with traditions attributing its founding to Greek settlers in the 7th century BCE. The Roman-era name Acium derived from the nearby Acis River, whose mythological significance stems from the legend of the mortal youth , loved by the nymph Galatea and slain by the cyclops , as recounted in Ovid's . This narrative, rooted in earlier Greek sources like Theocritus's Idylls, linked the river's etymology to the area's , influencing local that persisted into later periods. From the 5th to the 9th centuries, under Byzantine rule, the region around Acireale featured fortifications erected to counter invasions by and other groups, reflecting broader defensive strategies in Byzantine . Arab forces conquered the island progressively from 827 CE, establishing control over eastern by the mid- and introducing advanced agricultural practices, including the cultivation of citrus fruits such as bitter oranges around the , which transformed the fertile lava soils of the Etna slopes into productive orchards. The , led by Roger I of Hauteville, incorporated the Acireale area into the by the early 1070s, following victories in eastern that dismantled Arab strongholds near . This integration into the emerging Norman kingdom fostered feudal structures, with local lands granted to Norman counts who developed manors and promoted Latin Christian settlement amid a diverse population. In the medieval period, Acireale—then known as Aci—experienced growth as a burgeoning center, elevated to royal (demaniale) status by Frederick III of in the early , which exempted it from feudal dues and encouraged urban expansion. Population clusters formed around the emerging Piazza Duomo, site of early churches like the proto-cathedral dedicated to Santa Venera, serving as focal points for community and worship. Key events shaped this era: the Sicilian Vespers uprising of 1282 expelled Angevin rule, ushering in direct Aragonese governance that bolstered Acireale's administrative privileges.

Early modern and contemporary

In the early modern period, Acireale underwent significant transformation under Spanish rule. The town, previously known as Aquilia, was officially renamed Acireale in 1642 by King , reflecting its location near the ancient Acis River and marking its growing importance as a regional center. This renaming coincided with efforts to consolidate administrative control in . The establishment of cultural institutions further elevated the town's profile; notably, the Accademia degli Zelanti was founded in 1671, fostering intellectual and artistic pursuits that played a pivotal role in the city's cultural revival amid broader European Enlightenment influences. The devastating Val di Noto earthquake of January 11, 1693, razed much of Acireale, killing thousands and destroying key structures, as part of a seismic event that affected southeastern and claimed over 60,000 lives across the region. Reconstruction began almost immediately, with noble families and local entrepreneurs driving a comprehensive rebuilding effort from 1694 through the . This period saw the emergence of Acireale's signature , characterized by ornate facades, intricate stonework using local white Hyblaean limestone, and elaborate churches that created a visually striking urban landscape, earning the city its nickname as the "City of a Hundred Bell Towers." The Accademia degli Zelanti contributed to this revival by promoting literary and scientific endeavors, commissioning artworks, and preserving historical manuscripts that influenced the aesthetic and intellectual direction of the reconstruction. During the , Acireale played a notable role in the Risorgimento movement for Italian unification. As Giuseppe Garibaldi's advanced through in 1860, local unrest in the province, including Acireale, supported the campaign against Bourbon rule, with residents joining volunteer forces and aiding the push toward . The town became the first in to rebel openly against the Bourbons in January 1861, sparking widespread uprisings that accelerated the integration of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies into the Kingdom of Italy. This period also saw Acireale develop as a "City of Studies," with the proliferation of boarding schools and educational institutions that attracted scholars and bolstered its cultural prestige into the late . The 20th century brought further challenges and growth for Acireale. During , the town experienced intense conflict as Allied forces advanced on ; British troops captured Acireale on August 8, , after overcoming German and Italian defenses, including roadblocks and skirmishes that delayed the 50th Division's progress. Preceding the ground assault, campaigns targeted Sicilian in , contributing to the disruption in the region, though Acireale itself avoided the heaviest strategic bombings seen in nearby . Post-war recovery fueled industrialization across eastern , with Acireale benefiting from investments and a population surge—from around 25,000 in 1951 to over 50,000 by the 1980s—driven by migration from rural areas and economic diversification into manufacturing and services. In contemporary times, Acireale has emphasized environmental conservation and resilience amid its proximity to Mount Etna. The Oriented of La Timpa, established in April 1999 to protect a 6-kilometer coastal stretch of volcanic cliffs, Mediterranean maquis, and endemic , represents a key initiative in preserving the area's geological and heritage, following earlier regional environmental movements in the . The have seen heightened focus on , leveraging Acireale's patrimony and natural sites like La Timpa for eco-friendly experiences, while ongoing Etna eruptions—such as the paroxysmal events from 2020 to 2022—have prompted enhanced seismic monitoring through advanced and sensor networks to mitigate risks for nearby communities. These efforts include real-time detection and assessment by institutions like the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, ensuring balanced development amid geological activity.

Government and international relations

Local administration

Acireale functions as a within the in , , bearing the 95024. The municipal government operates under 's standard local administration framework, where the elected leads the executive branch, supported by a junta of assessors, while the city council handles legislative functions. The current is Roberto Barbagallo, an engineer elected in a run-off on June 12, 2023, with 51.57% of the vote, backed by a center-left coalition comprising civic lists such as Acireale 2030, Acireale è Viva, and Vento di Cambiamento, along with support from parties like the Democratic Party. Barbagallo's administration, which entered office on June 15, 2023, emphasizes balanced governance amid the city's historical role in regional unification efforts during the . The city council, consisting of 24 members elected in the same 2023 ballot, represents diverse political affiliations including Fratelli d'Italia and Prima l'Italia, ensuring oversight of municipal policies. Key administrative roles encompass the delivery of essential public services, including and collection—particularly the specialized handling of from nearby Mount Etna— for , and emergency response coordination, such as issuing alerts and mobilizing resources during volcanic eruptions. In the , the administration has prioritized initiatives for seismic resilience, including reconstruction and retrofitting projects following the 2018 Mount Etna earthquake, supported by national funds and contributions through the Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR). Additionally, green energy efforts build on the city's adherence to the Covenant of Mayors since 2010, focusing on CO2 reduction and sustainable urban mobility, with ongoing PNRR-funded projects promoting renewable sources and energy efficiency. The annual municipal budget is outlined in the Documento Unico di Programmazione and emphasizes fiscal balance, promotion through cultural events, and investments, with the 2024-2026 forecast approved by the council in March 2024.

Twin towns – sister cities

Acireale maintains formal twinning agreements with select international and national municipalities to foster cultural, economic, and heritage exchanges, often rooted in shared historical migrations, festivals, or religious traditions. The city's primary international partnership is with Mar del Plata, Argentina, established in 1996 to honor the Sicilian emigration waves from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly fishermen from Acireale's coastal hamlet of Santa Maria La Scala who helped develop Argentina's fishing industry. This twinning promotes ongoing cultural exchanges, including exhibitions on shared maritime heritage and collaborative events celebrating Sicilian-Argentine ties, such as the 25th anniversary commemoration in 2021 featuring displays of historical artifacts at Acireale's Palazzo di Città. Domestically, Acireale has a carnival-focused twinning with , , initiated in 2006 to enhance artistic collaborations between Italy's premier Carnival celebrations. This partnership involves the exchange of allegorical floats and artisans; for instance, in 2007, a float was displayed in Acireale's Piazza , while Acireale's winning floats have participated in 's parades, boosting mutual during festival seasons. In 2025, Acireale formalized a new twinning with Avola, another Sicilian town in the province of Siracusa, centered on their shared devotion to Saint Venera as patron saint. The agreement, approved by Acireale's city council in October 2025, aims to promote joint religious festivals, cultural tourism, and preservation of Baroque heritage, with an official ceremony held on November 15, 2025, during Acireale's winter patronal feast. These partnerships collectively support youth exchanges and local product promotion, such as wine and crafts, under broader European initiatives like Erasmus+.
Twin TownCountryYear EstablishedFocus Areas
Mar del Plata1996Migration heritage, fishing traditions, cultural exhibitions
2006Carnival collaborations, artistic exchanges,
2025Religious devotion, , heritage preservation

Economy

Primary sectors

Acireale's primary economic sectors are rooted in , leveraging the fertile volcanic soils derived from Mount Etna's activity, which enhance soil nutrient content and support robust crop yields. The region is renowned for , particularly oranges and lemons, with the Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA) maintaining a dedicated center in Acireale for citrus and Mediterranean crop studies since the early . Local farms, such as Tenuta Santa Tecla, exemplify this focus through certified organic cultivation of various varieties. Wine production also plays a key role, falling under the Etna DOC designation, which encompasses Acireale's eastern slopes where native grapes like Nerello Mascalese and Carricante are grown on terraced vineyards benefiting from the mineral-rich lava soils. extraction from local springs, historically linked to the Santa Venera thermal baths, contributes to bottling operations, drawing on the area's sulphurous and salsobromoiodic waters known since Roman times. Beyond agriculture, small-scale manufacturing includes textiles and leather goods, with artisan workshops producing items like handcrafted bags and accessories. Quarrying of volcanic stone, such as lava rock, supports local construction, utilizing the abundant basaltic materials from Etna's flows. As of 2011, employment in agriculture accounted for 10.4% of the local workforce, according to ISTAT data, reflecting its foundational role in the economy. However, these sectors face challenges from Mount Etna's eruptions, which deposit ash that can smother crops and disrupt harvests, as seen in recent events affecting regional supply chains. In response, a shift toward organic farming has accelerated since the 2010s, with initiatives promoting sustainable practices to mitigate environmental risks and enhance market value.

Services and tourism

Acireale functions as a prominent resort and cultural destination on Sicily's eastern coast, drawing visitors to its exquisite , vibrant celebrations, and longstanding tradition of thermal wellness. The town's historic center, with landmarks like the Cathedral of Maria SS. Annunziata and the Basilica of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, appeals to cultural tourists seeking authentic Sicilian heritage. Its annual , dating back to the and renowned for elaborate floats and parades, attracts thousands from and each February, boosting seasonal visitation. Central to Acireale's appeal are its thermal baths, originating in Roman times with natural springs known for therapeutic benefits. The waters, characterized as sulphurous, salsobromoiodic, and mildly radioactive, have historically treated respiratory, rheumatological, and dermatological conditions through bathing and inhalation therapies. Key facilities include the Terme di Santa Venera, opened in 1873 and expanded in the mid-20th century, alongside the nearby Baths of Santa Caterina established in 1987; these sites exploit ancient aqueduct systems to deliver the mineral-rich waters. Although closed since 2010 due to maintenance issues, regional revitalization plans announced in 2025 allocate €90 million for a public-private to modernize the complexes, aiming to reintegrate them into with sustainable infrastructure. The service sector underpins Acireale's visitor economy through robust hospitality and retail offerings, with hotels such as the 182-room Santa Tecla Palace and the 59-room Grande Albergo Maugeri providing accommodations amid the town's seaside and volcanic setting. , alongside production, forms a vital economic pillar, supporting local employment and complementing the region's mild that extends the appeal of outdoor activities year-round. Post-COVID recovery has been evident in Sicily's broader rebound, with Acireale benefiting from renewed interest in its cultural events and planned reopenings to foster extended stays and eco-friendly initiatives like integrated nature reserves.

Demographics

Acireale's population has shown steady growth over the long term, increasing from 30,785 residents in 1861 to over 50,000 by the early 2000s, reflecting broader and in eastern . According to ISTAT data, the town reached a peak of 51,456 inhabitants during the 2011 , supported by positive net migration and a relatively stable at the time. In recent years, the has experienced a slight decline, with 50,505 residents recorded as of December 31, 2023, and an estimated 50,579 in 2025. This trend is attributed to an aging population and , particularly among younger residents seeking opportunities elsewhere, resulting in a negative natural balance. The stands at approximately 1,249 inhabitants per square kilometer across the municipality's 40.44 km² area. In 2023, the was 7.4 per 1,000 inhabitants (373 births), while the death rate was 11.2 per 1,000 (565 deaths), contributing to the overall stagnation. Historical events have also shaped demographic patterns, including significant losses from the 1693 Sicily earthquake, which devastated the region and caused thousands of deaths in nearby , leading to temporary population disruptions and reconstruction-driven in-migration. More recently, in-migration from nearby for more has provided some offset to outflows, with a net migration gain of 89 in 2023.
YearPopulationSource
186130,785ISTAT via Comuni-Italiani.it
201151,456ISTAT
202350,505ISTAT
2025 (est.)50,579Quantitalia based on ISTAT

Social composition

Acireale's displays a balanced distribution with a slight predominance, consisting of 48.7% males and 51.3% s in 2025. The age structure indicates an aging demographic, with 15.2% of residents under 18 years, 61.1% aged 18 to 64, and 23.7% over 65 years; the median age stands at 45 years, aligning with broader trends in . Ethnically and linguistically, the community is overwhelmingly homogeneous, with approximately 96.5% of residents holding and identifying as ethnically Sicilian or Italian in 2025. A modest immigrant of about 3.5% contributes to , primarily comprising individuals from (such as and ) and (notably ), though these groups remain small and concentrated in urban areas. Standard Italian serves as the primary language, but the Sicilian prevails in everyday conversations, especially among older residents and in informal settings. Household structures reflect modern Italian patterns, with an average size of 2.3 persons per , stemming from low rates (around 1.24 children per woman nationally) and resulting in a high ratio that underscores the town's reliance on retirement-age support systems. Immigrants and expatriates, often drawn by the local economy, integrate through opportunities in tourism-related jobs, fostering gradual community ties without significantly altering the predominant Sicilian-Italian cultural fabric.

Main sights

Secular sites and buildings

Acireale's secular architecture exemplifies the Sicilian Baroque style, particularly following the devastating 1693 earthquake that prompted widespread reconstruction using local volcanic materials. The city's buildings prominently feature black lava stone from Mount Etna, often contrasted with white limestone from nearby Syracuse quarries, creating a distinctive effect in facades adorned with wrought-iron balconies, floral motifs, and angelic sculptures. This post-earthquake rebuilding transformed Acireale into a showcase of opulent civic structures, emphasizing resilience and aesthetic grandeur. Among the key secular buildings, Villa Belvedere stands out as the largest public garden in Acireale, constructed in 1848 and spanning avenues lined with flowerbeds and busts honoring 19th-century local luminaries. Perched on the northern edge of the town, it provides sweeping panoramic views of Mount Etna to the west and the to the east, serving as a vital green space adjacent to the historic thermal baths. The Comunale, or town hall, dates to 1659 and anchors the historic center with its elaborate portal and bracketed Modò building integration. Situated on , this late- structure houses administrative offices alongside a , a small , and an , reflecting Acireale's civic heritage since the Spanish era. Prominent palaces and squares further define the urban landscape, including Palazzo Pennisi Cesarò, an 18th-century noble residence along Corso Umberto I, noted for its architectural details in the official cultural catalog. Palazzo Pennisi di Floristella, a neoclassical edifice in the historic core, exemplifies refined 19th-century design with original furnishings. functions as the central hub, surrounded by elegant facades and serving as a focal point for daily life. Nearby, the Zelantea Library, established in 1671 as part of the Accademia degli Zelanti and later merged with other academies, preserves over 200,000 volumes, including incunabula, 16th- and 17th-century manuscripts, and scientific texts promoting Sicilian and Mediterranean studies. Museums dedicated to local history and traditions enrich Acireale's secular offerings. The Carnival Museum, opened in 2019 within the Palazzo del Turismo on Via Ruggero Settimo, exhibits life-size and miniature paper-mâché floats that highlight the artistry of the city's festive heritage. The Civic Museum, integrated into the Zelantea complex on Via Marchese di San Giuliano, displays artifacts such as an 18th-century Senate carriage, ancient weapons, a attributed to , and mineral specimens from the Etna region. Other notable secular sites include the Experimental Station of Fruit and Citrus, founded in 1907 to advance citrus and fruit cultivation through research on local varietals. These institutions underscore Acireale's role in scientific and agricultural innovation amid its volcanic terrain.

Religious sites

Acireale's religious sites exemplify the town's profound Catholic heritage, with churches and sanctuaries that blend medieval monastic legacies and post- Baroque splendor. The area's sacred architecture, rebuilt extensively after the 1693 Val di Noto , features ornate facades, intricate frescoes, and relics that foster local devotion to patron saints like . The of Maria Santissima Annunziata, or , serves as Acireale's central , located in Piazza Duomo. Its construction began in 1597 as a , with the main structure completed by 1618, though it was enlarged and elevated to status in 1872. The interior includes a plan, , and dome, while the exterior boasts two asymmetric towers in Gothic style—the southern from 1655 and the northern from 1887–1890—flanking a 1668 marble portal by Placido Blandamonte. The cathedral houses the relics of , Acireale's , in a dedicated frescoed by the Filocamo brothers in 1710–1711, emphasizing the site's role in communal veneration. The Basilica Collegiata di San Sebastiano, a jewel of , was erected between 1609 and 1644 on the site of an earlier chapel, with reconstruction following the 1693 from 1699 to 1705. Its facade, designed by Angelo Bellofiore and completed with 1754 statues by Giovan Battista Marini after Paolo Vasta's plans, features multi-tiered columns, putti friezes, and figures in white stone. Inside, the hosts renowned frescoes by Paolo Vasta from 1732 to 1736, illustrating scenes from the lives of and Christ in the , choir, and dome drum, alongside paintings like Vasta's and Trinità coi santi. Elevated to minor basilica status in 1990, it remains a focal point for January 20 processions honoring the saint. The Basilica of the Saints Peter and Paul, rebuilt in 1608 from late-16th-century origins and restored after 1693, showcases a single-nave interior with side chapels and an vaulted in 1790 by Francesco Di Paola Patanè. Its facade, crafted from white Syracuse stone and designed by Pietro Paolo Vasta starting in 1740, comprises two superimposed orders of Corinthian and mixed columns, a central window, and three portals, completed in 1751 with a third level added in 1765. A tall , funded in 1705, rises adjacent with angles, decorative masks, and a cuspidate roof, dominating the skyline near the . The interior includes 1674–1679 frescoes by Giovanni Fulco depicting martyrdom scenes, reinforcing its devotional significance. The Santuario della Madonna dell'Indirizzo represents a vital Marian , constructed in 1709 at the initiative of the family to honor a revered . Its neoclassical facade, featuring a semicircular pronaos, was added in 1812 by Sebastiano Ittar, complementing the original structure's simplicity. The sanctuary preserves a 17th-century of Santa and Sant'Agata by local Giacinto Platania, linking it to broader saintly devotion in Acireale. Acireale's religious complexes trace roots to medieval monastic influences, particularly the Benedictine order introduced by Norman rulers in the , which fostered Sicily's Latin Christian framework and communal worship practices. Across these sites, 18th-century art—such as Vasta's frescoes and sculptures in and —highlights the era's artistic peak, serving as focal points for local and processional traditions.

Culture

Cuisine and traditions

Acireale's cuisine reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the eastern Sicilian coast, emphasizing fresh seafood from the and fruits cultivated in the surrounding volcanic soils. Signature dishes include , a semi-frozen dessert made from flavored ice—typically , , , or —served with a soft bun known as "col tuppo," which locals tear and dip into the granita as a traditional breakfast ritual passed down through generations. Pastries such as ricotta-filled , cassatelle ( pockets with or sweetened ), and almond-based treats highlight the area's confectionery expertise, often featuring pistachios introduced via influences during the medieval period. Seafood plays a central role in daily meals, with fresh catches like Mediterranean and prepared simply grilled or in pasta dishes, sourced from nearby coastal villages and markets in Acireale. Local products extend to citrus-based liqueurs derived from Etna lemons (a Protected Geographical Indication variety) and other fruits grown at the base of Mount Etna, offering vibrant flavors like that complement the region's bold palate. Etna DOC wines, produced from vineyards in the volcanic surrounding Acireale, provide robust reds and whites that pair well with these seafood-centric meals, underscoring the area's vinicultural tradition. Traditional sweets trace their roots to Baroque-era convents in eastern , where nuns developed recipes for items like —a layered with , , and candied fruits—using local almonds and citrus. Dining customs in Acireale emphasize communal and family-style meals, often enjoyed in convivial osterias where generous portions of homemade and (fried rice balls with fillings like or local cavolo trunzo turnips) are shared among groups. thrives during market days, featuring portable treats like these and small savory pastries, reflecting the blend of Arab-Norman ingredients such as pistachios and in everyday fare. The influence of Arab-Norman heritage is evident in the use of pistachios and in both savory and sweet preparations, adding nutty and aromatic depth to dishes. Traditions include the production of extra virgin from local groves, celebrated through seasonal events that highlight its role in Sicilian cooking, and home-based preservation techniques where , , and are submerged in to extend while infusing flavors. These practices, rooted in the area's agricultural base of and cultivation, ensure that seasonal produce remains integral to the diet year-round.

Events and festivals

Acireale is renowned for its vibrant , a dating back to the with the earliest documented celebrations in 1594, when local authorities funded festive events linked to pre-Lenten rites. The event features elaborate parades in , showcasing allegorical floats crafted from that satirize current events and figures, accompanied by marching bands, masked groups, and folk performances along the city's historic streets. Culminating on , the festivities include spectacular fireworks displays, marking the symbolic end of excess before . Often hailed as the most beautiful in , it draws tens of thousands of visitors annually, transforming the Baroque town into a spectacle of color, music, and creativity. Complementing the winter Carnival, Acireale hosts seasonal variations that extend the festive spirit throughout the year. The in features parades of floats adorned with fresh blooms and Mediterranean , turning the streets into a vibrant and celebrating spring's renewal. In August, the Summer Carnival revives the tradition with lighter, evening parades under the stars, incorporating music and dance to beat the heat. December brings markets to the city center from the 20th to 26th, offering stalls with crafts, toys, and seasonal goods amid twinkling lights and nativity displays. Religious feasts hold deep cultural significance, blending devotion with communal celebration. The procession of , the city's co-patron saint, occurs on January 20, drawing crowds to the Basilica di San Sebastiano for masses, a penitential tour of the through the streets, and , reflecting a devotion rooted in Acireale's history since the 17th century. Etna-related rituals are woven into local events, particularly the , where the mascot Lavica symbolizes the volcano's lava flows and fertile power, serving as a propitiatory rite for seasonal cycles and the land's volcanic bounty. In the , the has embraced international dimensions through ongoing twinning agreements with other European festivals established since 2005, fostering exchanges of floats, artists, and cultural programs to enhance global visibility. These collaborations, alongside the event's appeal, continue to attract visitors from across , underscoring Acireale's role in preserving and evolving Sicilian festive traditions.

Myths and legends

The myth of forms a central element of Acireale's legendary heritage, drawing from traditions preserved in Roman . In this tale, the young Sicilian shepherd Acis, son of the god and the Symaethis, falls in love with the sea Galatea, daughter of and Doris. Their romance enrages the Cyclops , who crushes Acis beneath a massive out of jealousy; Galatea then transforms Acis's blood into the river that bears his name, the Acis (modern Fiume dell'Aci), which flows near Acireale and gives the city its etymological roots as "Aci Reale." This narrative, detailed in Ovid's (Book XIII), symbolizes the enduring connection between the region's landscape and , with the river's waters mythically embodying the lovers' tragic passion. Local legends intertwine Acireale's volcanic setting with divine craftsmanship and saintly miracles. Mount Etna, looming over the city, is depicted in ancient lore as the forge of (Vulcan to the Romans), the god of fire and metallurgy, where he and the hammered out thunderbolts for amid the mountain's rumbling depths; eruptions were thus interpreted as the clangor of divine labor, influencing Acireale's on seismic and fiery phenomena. Complementing these pagan tales are Christian hagiographies, such as that of , Acireale's , whose ties her to the city's springs. Born in the ancient settlement of Aci Xiphonia around 100 AD, Venera reportedly bathed in these waters before her martyrdom, imbuing them with healing properties for ailments like skin conditions, a belief that persists in local traditions associating the baths with miraculous cures. Folklore traditions in Acireale also encompass tales of resilience and ritualistic revelry. Stories from the 1693 , which devastated the region, recount survivors attributing their escape to divine intervention or protective spirits, with oral narratives emphasizing communal bonds forged in rubble-strewn streets. Carnival-linked fables evoke pre-Christian roots, portraying masked figures as embodiments of wandering spirits or satirical guardians warding off misfortune, a motif traced to ancient shamanic practices where disguises repelled evil during seasonal transitions. These myths exert a lasting cultural impact through Acireale's and . The Accademia degli Zelanti, founded in 1671, has preserved and explored such lore in its scholarly publications, blending classical references with local history to inspire Baroque-era works. Notable examples include sculptures like the statue of Galatea mourning in Acireale's Villa Belvedere, which visually captures Ovid's and reinforces the city's mythological identity in public spaces.

Society

Education

Acireale has long been recognized as the "City of Studies" due to its development in the second half of the , when it hosted numerous boarding schools and educational institutions that attracted students from across . This reputation was bolstered by the establishment of the Accademia degli Zelanti in 1671, an institution dedicated to advancing sciences, letters, and fine arts, which merged with other scholarly groups in 1835 and 1934 to form the Accademia di Scienze, Lettere e Belle Arti degli Zelanti e dei Dafnici. The academy played a pivotal role in fostering intellectual growth, particularly in the natural sciences and local , contributing to Acireale's cultural and educational heritage through conferences, publications, and support for emerging scholars. Today, Acireale's educational landscape centers on a robust network of secondary schools, including licei such as the Liceo Statale "Archimede" and the Istituto di Istruzione Superiore "G. Ferraris," which together serve thousands of students from the city and surrounding province. While Acireale lacks a major university campus, its schools maintain close ties with the , facilitating advanced coursework, research collaborations, and pathways for higher education in fields like sciences and . Vocational training programs are also prominent, with entities like Pronto Turismo offering accredited courses in hospitality and tourism management, alongside agricultural training initiatives tailored to the region's Etna-area economy. Key facilities include the Biblioteca Zelantea, part of the Accademia degli Zelanti, which houses over 100,000 books and 56,000 volumes, including rare incunabula and works on and sciences dating back to the . This library supports student and public access, enhancing Acireale's role as a regional learning hub. The city boasts a high rate of approximately 99%, aligning with national averages and reflecting effective primary and systems. In recent years, STEM initiatives have gained traction, such as free informatics courses offered by the Etna Digital Academy, which promote computational skills and relevant to Etna's volcanic .

Transport

Acireale benefits from a well-integrated transport network that facilitates connectivity to nearby urban centers and natural attractions in eastern . The primary road access is via State Road 114 (SS114), a coastal route that links Acireale directly to , approximately 18 kilometers away, with typical driving times of 20 minutes under normal conditions. This road forms part of the broader infrastructure connecting the city to the A18 motorway, enabling efficient travel toward to the north and Syracuse to the south. Local bus services, operated by the Azienda Siciliana Trasporti (AST), provide intra-city and regional routes, including frequent lines to and surrounding municipalities like Aci Castello and Acicastello, supporting daily commuting and . Rail transport in Acireale centers on the Acireale railway station, located on the standard-gauge ––Syracuse line managed by , a division of . Regional trains operated by depart regularly, reaching Centrale in about 19 minutes and Centrale in roughly 1 hour, with services extending to via connections. For access to Mount Etna's volcanic landscapes, the narrow-gauge offers scenic routes from nearby junctions like Giarre-Riposto station (reachable in 12 minutes from Acireale), traveling inland to and circling the Etna base over 110 kilometers. Air travel is supported by proximity to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, situated 20 kilometers southwest of Acireale and accessible by car in approximately 25 minutes or via AST bus and train combinations in under 1 hour. The airport serves as Sicily's main international gateway, with direct flights to major European cities. For sea connections, Acireale relies on nearby facilities including the port in Riposto (approximately 16 kilometers north), which accommodates small ferries and recreational vessels along the Ionian coast, and the larger port (18 kilometers away), offering scheduled ferry services to and seasonal routes to the via . Complementing this, regional trials of electric buses have been introduced in eastern Sicily, including routes near Acireale, to reduce emissions and enhance efficiency as part of broader Sicilian green mobility programs.

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