The Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses, located in Sant'Alfio, on the slopes of Etna, is one of the most iconic trees in Europe. With over 2,000 years of life, it is the largest and oldest chestnut tree on the continent, as well as one of the most famous natural symbols of Sicily. Its history is intertwined with legends, myths and centuries of vicissitudes, which have made it a true "patriarch" of the land.
The legend surrounding the Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses tells that, in distant times, Queen Joanna of Aragon, fleeing from an enemy attack, took refuge under the branches of this tree with her entourage of one hundred knights. Although there is no historical evidence, this story has helped give the chestnut tree its name and fuel the mysterious aura that surrounds it. The legend paints the image of a tree so large that it could accommodate an entire troop of knights under its shade.
The Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses is a giant of nature. With a trunk that has a circumference of about 22 meters, it is divided into numerous trunks that intertwine with each other, creating an incredible "forest" within its trunk. Its height, which reaches 20 meters, and its majesty are impressive. Despite the many difficulties it has had to face, such as fires and lightning, the chestnut tree has resisted thanks to its extraordinary ability to regenerate.
Over the centuries, the Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses has suffered serious damage, including a devastating fire in the 19th century. However, its resilient spirit has allowed this tree to continue living, becoming a symbol of strength and resistance. Its ability to regenerate has made it a true witness to the natural history of Sicily.
In 2008, the Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses was officially named "Patriarch of the Earth", a title that celebrates not only its longevity, but also its fundamental role in Sicilian history and culture. This recognition underlines the importance of the tree as a living heritage, guardian of the historical memory of the region and symbol of a Sicily that resists over time.
The Castagno dei Cento Cavalli is today a point of reference, a living monument that tells the story of a strong Sicily capable of surviving the challenges of time. A tree that, with its imposing presence, continues to speak through the centuries.