3 Best Sights in Gangi, Sicily

This imposing 1337 Norman tower is attached to the facade of Gangi's "Mother Church," the Chiesa di Saint Niccolò of Bari, with a square bell tower built upon three levels and arabesque arched windows. It was part of the feudal kingdom of the Ventimiglia family, who left marks of their wealth and dominance all over the island. After an extensive renovation, it now houses a permanent exhibition of local artists and Christmas nativity models. The church itself is filled with artwork from the 17th and 18th centuries, including eye-catching sculptures by Filippo Quattrocchi (1738--1813). Descend into the crypt and the macabre catacombs to meet the mummies of 60 priests from Gangi.

This civic museum is housed in a spectacular golden stone palace, typical of Gangi's architectural style. The friendly, informative staff may point out the symbolism among the 96 colorful paintings depicting Gangi's landscape and life by honorary cittadino Gianbecchina (1909--2001), a maestro of "Lyrical Realism." The upper floors hold various objects excavated from local archaeological sites as well as eclectic items related to local history, including a fascinating, if unsettling, array of firearms from around the world.

The best way to experience Gangi is by walking through its historical center and evocative ancient streets. Walk along the Corso Umberto I and Via G.F. Vitale until you get to this late-18th-century palace constructed by the Bongiorno family, the barons of Cacchiamo. The three-story court is filled with decorative frescoes, various artworks, and royally sumptuous details.