National Castle Days - Castle of Cefalà Diana

A weekend dedicated to the castles of Sicily

The National Castle Days are the leading Italian event devoted to enhancing fortified heritage. Organised by the Istituto Italiano dei Castelli APS-ETS under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, the days offer the general public, scholars and tourists the chance to access sites often excluded from traditional tourist circuits. In Sicily the Institute's regional section chooses a few emblematic castles each year: in 2026 the programme focused on the Castle of Cefalà Diana, in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, Sicily.

The Castle of Cefalà Diana

Perched on a rocky spur dominating the valley between Palermo and the hinterland, the Castle of Cefalà Diana is a fortification of medieval origin, probably built between the 13th and 14th centuries as an outpost controlling the island's ancient inland communication routes. Its strategic position and austere mass make it one of the most striking panoramic spots in the town's territory. During the event the castle is opened with free guided tours, accompanied by historical and architectural insights.

The Arab-Norman Baths

A short distance from the castle lie the Arab-Norman Baths of Cefalà Diana, a unique testimony to the meeting of cultures that marks the history of Sicily. Part of the Regional Archaeological Park of Himera, Solunto and Iato, the baths are one of the most fascinating stops on the itinerary, able to tell the Arab, Norman and medieval layering of the Palermo landscape.

Science, awards and nature

The distinctive feature of the Days is the union of outreach and scientific rigour. In Cefalà Diana the tours are led by professors and architects of the University of Palermo and by experts such as the director of the Regional Centre for Design and Restoration. The event is also linked to the "Salvatore Boscarino" graduation prize, dedicated to the best theses on the restoration and study of fortified architecture. The programme extends towards the Bosco della Ficuzza Nature Reserve, with a visit to the Real Casina di Caccia and the LIPU Wildlife Recovery Centre, in a blend of historical heritage and natural environment.

A travelling event in the province of Palermo

The Days have a travelling character: across the Palermo area the 2026 edition also took in the Torre Roccella of Campofelice di Roccella and the Castle of Caccamo, building a three-day route among the fortresses of the Madonie and the hinterland. Participation is free and open, designed for members, local communities, enthusiasts and tourists who wish to rediscover the historical identity of Sicily.