Melilli


Melilli is a comune in the Province of Syracuse, Sicily, located about southeast of Palermo and about northwest of Syracuse.

Geography

Melilli stands at about above sea level close to the Monti Climiti chain, overlooking the Megara bay and the industrial district of Augusta-Priolo.
Melilli borders the following municipalities: Augusta, Carlentini, Priolo Gargallo, Syracuse, Sortino.

History

The human presence in the area is attested since the Bronze Age. Its strategic situation between the major cities of Augusta and Syracuse has played a critical role in its growth. In the feudal age, it became a dominion of the Augusta County.
It managed to revive after two devastating quakes in 1542 and 1693. Since 1842 it has been an autonomous city.

Main sights

The Chiesa Madre, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, has a ceiling painted with the Triumph of the Faith by Olivo Sozzi. The church of San Sebastiano, dating from the 18th century, houses various paintings by Sozzi, among which are a Coronation of Saint Sebastian and The Triumph of the Faith, and a marble altarpiece representing the Deposition of St. Bartholomew.

Nature

The River Marcellino, flowing nearby, offers naturalistic spots and an old necropolis.
The neighboring salt-mines of Augusta were an important economic resource as far as the end of World War II.

Economy

Culture

Feasts in the town include: