Salemi is nestled on the hill in the Belice Valley. It rises above its Norman–Swabian Castle. This village is located in the middle Trapani area. It has a maze of narrow stone-paved streets that look almost like a parlor. It is one of the ” Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” because of its unique charm.
The Halicyae ancient town, as it was once known, has been through all historical events related to the oldest settlements of Sicily. It was home to the Elymians, the Vandals, the Goths, and the Byzantines. However, its current name is derived from the Arabic word Salam which means peace.
The Arabs brought spices such as clove, cinnamon and saffron. These were combined with the natural flavours of lemons, oranges, and peaches, as well as thyme, oregano, which are part of the rich, spontaneous vegetation found in the Mediterranean scrub. The deliciously aromatic essences and vibrant colors that make Sicily such a diverse and beautiful land.
You can trace the history of Salemi along the narrow streets leading to the Giudecca. This is the Jewish area. The Mus eum of Sacred Art is a must-see. It houses a perfect reproduction of the House of Loreto with its frescoed vaults, and statues by Laurana & Gagini. It is worth visiting the Museum of Risorgimento as well as the touching Museum of Mafia.
This important history is not lost. It has left an important and well-preserved evidence in the Mokarta and Monte Polizo archaeological areas, as well in the Ancient Fornace Sant’Angelo.
The Museum Network of Salemi, which includes all of the town’s artistic, cultural, and natural resources, is a part of the larger and more ambitious Belicina Museum Network, which covers the entire territory of Belice.
Salemi continues to preserve the old tradition of devotional bread. Local people make special loaves in a baroque style to mark the religious feasts San Joseph , March 19 and Sant’Antonio Abate January 17 respectively.
It’s not just the grandmothers who have to continue the tradition, but also the pastry chefs and bakers from Salemi. They prepare cudderedde, and vadduzzi (special loaves for San Giuseppe or San Biagio celebrations).
The busiata is a handmade pasta that’s twisted around a spindle. You can season them with different sauces.
We can find many beautiful and evocative spots nearby, including Segesta e Selinunte and Mothia, as well as the Stagnone Nature Reserve, Marsala and Scopello, San Vito Lo Capo, Erice and San Vito Lo Capo.
busiate -ph. Robianni