Guide to Cianciana
When you are in Cianciana
At first glance, Cianciana may seem like a small, somewhat boring and anonymous mountain village. But after just a few days – or even hours – in the town, you quickly realize that there is much more beneath the surface.
In our eyes, the town’s greatest attraction is its inhabitants. Rarely have we been met with greater hospitality, friendliness and warmth than here in town. Many of the locals have lived years of their lives in, for example, England or Canada (many moved from the town when mining stopped in the late 60s, early 70s). So many speak fluent English, and there is a great understanding and acceptance of foreigners who buy property in the town and thus contribute to the town.
It can take hours to walk from one end of the town to the other, because it is difficult not to fall into conversation along the way. Make an appointment with the local barber/hairdresser (whichever one you choose, it’s a great place to get local tips and information), or take a stroll down the main street at 6pm, where many people take their daily ‘passeggiare’. But if you’re in a hurry, use the small side streets instead of the main street.
Attractions in Cianciana
Top of Town
Almost any time of day, it is always wonderful to take a walk to what we call the Top of Town. Walk either from the Clock Tower Café on Salita Regina Elena or from the main street by the church Chiesa B.V. Maria del Monte Carmelo up Salita Carmelo. The two streets meet in a small square with olive trees and a fountain. From here, take the road Salita Calvario, which continues all the way to the top. At the very top there is a small church, which we have only experienced as open in connection with the Easter events. There is a 360-degree view from the top, where to the west you can see Ribera, Caltabellotta between the three pointed mountain peaks, to the north the top of Monte Cammarate (1,578 m.a.s.l.), to the east the neighboring town of San Biagio Platani, the special town of Sant’Angelo Muxaro, which is located on a cliff top, and the mountains and natural park to the south. Both sunrise and sunset are often exceptionally beautiful from up here.
The churches
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The museum
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Monument to the fallen
At the top of the steps at the Piazza Orologio is situated the monument to the Fallen of All Wars.
Note the marble base in the Italian colors – green, white and red.
The Park and the Eiffel Tower
Right across from the Q8 gas station you will find the town's small park. At first glance it doesn't look like much, but take a walk and you will discover the park's little specialties. There is a mini Eiffel Tower, an amphitheater, petanque courts, a playground, and a full model of Sicily as well as a memorial to the town's miners. The park hides many different trees, bushes and flowers, so there is also something for botanists. On the street corner opposite the park, a large playground with lots of activities for children has been built in the spring of 2025.
Convento
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Sports and leisure
Padel tennis
Padel Silva Center on Via Papa Giovanni XXIII, opposite the town hall, has two outdoor courts for padel tennis.
See more on the Facebook page >
or contact by email: centropadelsilva@gmail.com
Galleria d'Arte Cianciana
With the help of countless locals, we – a small handful of expats – managed to set up an art gallery during the autumn of 2024. The first opening was over Christmas and New Year, and we have also kept the gallery open for guests during Easter 2025. The latest exhibition included 26 artists – approx. 75% locals and 25% foreigners – who were able to showcase their talents in painting, illustration, sculpture and photography.
We look forward to opening again – future openings will be announced on the Facebook page >
Biking
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New playground, spring 2025
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Fitness Center
On the Corso Commendatore Cinquemani Arcuri, not far from Panificio San Giuseppe, is a fitness center with all modern facilities. Here you can work out and do spinning, crossfit and body building.
Cultural Center
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Walking and hiking
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ASD Cianciana Calcio
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Holidays and events throughout the year
San Giuseppe – March 19th
Celebration of Joseph and Father's Day at the same time. The town is festively decorated with lights, and there is a lot going on in the center. Among other things, a horse parade. Some roads are blocked off.
Ferrari day
Every year in June, the local Ferrari club in Ribera goes on a tour, and on the way they typically stop in Cianciana. The exclusive cars make a lot of noise in the street, and if you're lucky you might get a piece of Ferrari cake when they hand it out on the steps of the Clock Tower Café.
Santa Lucia – December 13th
Easter
Probably the biggest of all the holidays of the year. Especially in Cianciana, all the days of Easter are filled with activities. The events start as early as Palm Sunday, and throughout the week there is live theater in the streets, where the entire biblical story of Easter is experienced.
On Good Friday, Jesus walks through the streets, carrying the cross, and continues all the way up to the 'Top of Town', where the crucifixion takes place.
Cianciana is known for their large-scale staging, and it is by far the largest event in the village.
Ferragosto – August 15th
Public holiday throughout Italy. Originates from the Feriae Augusti, the festival of Emperor Augustus, which originally made August 1st a day of rest.
The busiest time of year in Cianciana, so be sure to book a table if you want to eat out.
Christmas
The town is decorated for Christmas, and there is a lot going on in the churches.
Remember to buy your Christmas Panettone before it's sold out!
