Enna Information

How to get to Enna

Enna is located right in the centre of the island, thus earning another nickname "ombelico" or navel. It's a mountainous region of much beauty but remains far less developed than other regions. The Enna province has less tourist infrastructure and transport services than other regions in Sicily, however getting to/from Enna town itself is not difficult. The bus terminal is in the new town on Viale Diaz with SAIS Autolinee services to nearby towns and also Catania, Palermo and Piazza Armerina. The train station is in Enna Bassa at the base of the hill about four kilometres away. While the location is a little bit inconvenient a local bus does connect regularly to the medieval centre.

Things to do and see in Enna

The Castello di Lombardia at the top of Via Roma is a fine example of military architecture with solid rampart walls and towers. It's also the prime sight in town and wonderfully free of charge. Built by the Saracens and improved by Frederick II of Aragon, it includes courtyards, gardens, a medieval prison, bishop's chapel and an outdoor lyric theatre. From Torre Pisana are fantastic views over the surrounding region. Only six of the original 20 towers are still standing. The road to/from the Castello, Via Roma, features a number of other key sights. Some places to stop off at would include the 14th Century Duomo with its Baroque facade and Gothic doors, the picture gallery of Enna's painters at the Museo Civico Alessi, the main square Piazza Vittorio Emanuele with its fine views, the San Francesco church's impressive 16th Century tower and the 24m high Torre di Federico II in the Giardino Pubblico (public garden).

One of Enna's key events is the sombre Settimana Santa at Easter. Unlike other parts of Europe where Easter is cause for celebration, the parades held here over Easter are silent. They begin on Palm Sunday and involve penitents dressed in white hoods leaving the church and marching to the duomo. They are supposed to represent various fraternities but one can’t help thinking of the dreaded Klu Klux Klan in the USA. The absolute silence of the affair is kind of eerie but also incredibly moving. The events culminate a week later on Easter Sunday. This is probably one of Sicily’s most interesting Easter events, along with those in Trapani.

Hotels and restaurants in Enna

Enna is not a huge tourist destination and there aren't as many accommodation or eating options as in other centres. However you will find a smattering of hotels, b&bs, trattorias and bars to choose from. If you plan to visit during major motor sport action at the Autodromo di Pergusa or the Easter period then book well ahead.

Find your restaurant and your hotel using our accomodation page and restaurant review page.

*Photos by Hen Magonza