Borgo Borzellino: a ghost of the past along the Sicily Divide
The ruins of Borgo Borzellino rise silently among the Sicilian hills, a ghost of the past that captures the attention of the cyclist traveling along the Sicily Divide. A place steeped in history and memory, which invites you to stop and reflect.
A ghost town born from fascism
Borgo Borzellino was built in the 1940s as part of the colonization plan of the fascist regime. The goal was to repopulate the Sicilian countryside and create a self-sufficient agricultural community. The village was designed with modern criteria, with tidy houses, a school, a church and even a cinema.
A broken dream
However, the dream of Borgo Borzellino was soon shattered. The poor quality of the land, the distance from the population centers and the lack of work opportunities led to the gradual abandonment of the village. Starting in the 1960s, the inhabitants began to move elsewhere, leaving their homes empty and decaying.
A place of memory and hope
Today, Borgo Borzellino is a place of memory and reflection. The ruins of the village tell the story of a broken dream, but also the hope of a better future.
An evocative experience for the cyclist
For the cyclist who travels the Sicily Divide, Borgo Borzellino is an evocative and touching stop. A place that invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in the history and memory of Sicily.
What to see in Borgo Borzellino:
The ruins of houses and public buildings
The church of San Giovanni Battista
The war memorial
The museum of memory
Useful information:
Borgo Borzellino is located a few kilometers from Monreale, in the province of Palermo.
The village can be reached by bicycle, car or bus.
Entrance to the village is free.
We recommend visiting the village in the company of a local guide to learn more about its history.
Borgo Borzellino is always there, it doesn't move even if it is currently undergoing a major renovation that will transform it into an important nature study centre. Inquire about guided tours or permits relating to access to the facility.
Translated by Google •
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