Forza d’Agrò

HISTORY. Its name, a reduction of Antico Casale d’Agrilla, evokes the “fortress”. This town perched on the hill at about 420 meters above sea level, developed around a castle at the time of Conte Ruggero. The fortification was built around the VII century as a result of frequent Arab raids: in 1091, in fact, the Count erected the castle to give protection to the people against invaders.

HISTORIC MONUMENTAL TOUR. Among the places to visit, don’t miss the Baroque facade of the High Church. The Cathedral of Santissima Annunziata, dating back to 1400, was destroyed by the earthquake in 1648 and then completely rebuilt in 1700. Inside the church, you can admire the image of Crocifisso (the Crucified is carried in procession on September 14th through the streets of the country) but admire also at the statue of St. Catherine of Alexandria and the paintings of the SS. Sacramento, St. Joseph and the Holy Family, Saint Lucia.
Visit also the church of “SS.Trinità” (Holy Trinity): dating back to 1400, it overlooks the square, which you can reach passing the Arc Durazzo. Finally, go to San Francesco Church and the Augustinian convent. Enjoy the wonder of the landscape and the natural greenery.

TRADITION AND CUISINE. If you love the tradition, do not miss Festa della Trinità (inspired by the painting of the visit of the three angels to Abraham and celebrated in Forza d’Agrò every other year the first Sunday in August, and in Gallodoro on 15th August). During this feast the fraternities come together and divide traditional sweets called “cuddure” or “bread of St. Nicholas”, symbolizing the sense of brotherhood.