Montalbano Elicona

Montalbano Elicona is a charming municipality located in the province of Messina, in Sicily. This picturesque medieval village is situated on a hill at about 900 meters above sea level, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and the mountains that surround it. The origins of Montalbano Elicona date back to the Norman era, when the castle that dominates the town was built to defend the territory from external attacks. Over the centuries, the village has developed around the castle, preserving its ancient cobbled streets and stone houses that give a fairytale atmosphere to the place. The main square of Montalbano Elicona is the bustling heart of the town, where the inhabitants gather to socialize and enjoy the tranquility that characterizes provincial life. The narrow alleys that wind from the historic center are a maze of picturesque views and hidden corners, inviting you to get lost among the architectural beauties of the past. The local cuisine of Montalbano Elicona is a true celebration of authentic and genuine flavors, reflecting the Sicilian culinary tradition. The typical dishes of the place are prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients, making every meal an unforgettable experience for the palate. The people of Montalbano Elicona are known for their friendliness and hospitality, welcoming visitors with warmth and generosity. The festivals and popular traditions that enliven the village throughout the year are the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and discover the deep roots of this close-knit community. Ultimately, Montalbano Elicona is a hidden gem of Sicily, a place where time seems to have stopped and where the beauty of nature harmoniously blends with history and tradition. Anyone lucky enough to visit this enchanting village will not be able to help but fall in love with it and desire to return again and again.

ISTAT code: 083057
Telephone: 0941679012
Mayor: Antonino Todaro

Companies, Institutions and Points of Interest in the municipality of Montalbano Elicona:

Montalbano Elicona is a Sicilian municipality rich in local businesses that actively contribute to the economy of the area. The commercial activities in the territory offer a wide range of products and services, meeting the needs of the local community and visitors. The local businesses in Montalbano Elicona range from small craft shops and typical products to restaurants and bars that enhance Sicilian culinary tradition. Local products such as cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, and wine are particularly appreciated for their quality and authenticity. The commercial activities of the municipality stand out for their authenticity and attention to the enhancement of local traditions. Many businesses are family-run and pass down ancient artisanal techniques and traditional recipes through generations. In addition to activities related to food and wine, Montalbano Elicona also boasts a variety of clothing stores, shoe shops, gift shops, and souvenir shops, enriching the commercial offer of the area. Local businesses are a reference point for the community, offering not only quality products and services but also a place for meeting and socializing. The shops and venues in the municipality are often frequented by residents who find a familiar and welcoming environment there. Thanks to the commitment and passion of its entrepreneurs, Montalbano Elicona is able to offer an authentic and genuine experience to its visitors, who can discover the richness of local tradition through the products and services offered by the businesses in the area. In an increasingly globalized economic context, the local businesses of Montalbano Elicona represent an important cultural and social heritage to be preserved and enhanced, contributing to the promotion and dissemination of Sicilian traditions and culture.

Community and Government

Extra-hotel facilities

Food and Beverage

Health facilities

Landmarks and Outdoors

Retail

Service company

Short-term rentals

Transport

Statistics

The Municipality of Montalbano Elicona, with a population of 2065 inhabitants in 2023, shows a balanced distribution between males and females. The territorial area of 67.8009 sq km offers ample opportunities for development and investment, with a significant presence of available housing, including 1,033 occupied and 1,840 unoccupied as of December 31, 2021. The presence of 190 foreigners in the area indicates a certain openness and cultural diversity, which could enhance attractiveness for international investments. However, the lack of luxury accommodation facilities and higher category hotels could be a critical issue for tourism development. Despite having only one hotel with 11 beds and 7 rooms, the hospitality sector could be enhanced through the promotion of other forms of accommodation such as Bed & Breakfasts, which count 6 structures with 28 beds. Furthermore, the presence of a museum with 13,000 visitors in 2020 highlights a tourist potential linked to the cultural heritage of the area. The geographical and morphological characteristics, with altitude ranges from 300 to 1199 meters, offer opportunities for the development of activities related to nature tourism and hiking. Additionally, the presence of 3 rental accommodations managed as entrepreneurial ventures may indicate an interest in the real estate sector and the enhancement of tourist residences. In conclusion, Montalbano Elicona presents itself as an area with potential for tourism and real estate development, which could attract investors interested in enhancing the cultural and natural heritage of the area. However, it is necessary to invest in the creation of new accommodation facilities and in the enhancement of tourism infrastructure to fully exploit the opportunities offered by the area.

ISTAT COD AND MUNICIPALITIES
ISTAT code083057
MunicipalityMontalbano Elicona
INHABITANTS (2023)
Total Inhabitants2065
Males1013
Females1052
TERRITORIAL SURFACES
HOUSES 2021
Occupied dwellings as of December 31st1.033
Unoccupied dwellings as of December 31st1840
Homes as of December 31st2.873
Stranieri
Males122
Females68
Total190
5 STARS AND 5 STAR LUXURY
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
4 STARS
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
3 STARS
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
2 STARS
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
1 STAR
Exercises1
Beds11
Rooms7
Bathrooms7
Tourist Hotel Residences
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
Total Hotels
Exercises1
Beds11
Rooms7
Bathrooms7
Campsites and Tourist Villages
Number0
Beds0
Rental accommodation managed in an entrepreneurial manner
Number3
Beds26
Farmhouses
Number0
Beds0
Youth Hostels
Number0
Beds0
Holiday homes
Number0
Beds0
Alpine refuges
Number0
Beds0
Other accommodation facilities
Number0
Beds0
Bed & Breakfast
Number6
Beds28
Total non-hotel establishments
Number9
Beds54
Total accommodation facilities
Number10
Beds65
2020 Museums and Similar Institutions
Number of museum institutions1
Number of visitors13000
Fasce altimetriche
PERIMETER_KM50.80
AREA_KMQ67.80
0-299 (%)2.2
300-599 (%)17.4
600-899 (%)29.5
900-1.199 (%)40.8
1.200-1.499 (%)10.0
1.500-1.999 (%)0.0
2.000-2.499 (%)0.0
>=2.500 (%)0.0
% Total100
Agrarian region
Agricultural Region Code8303
Denomination: Agricultural RegionALTO FANTINA E ALTO MELA
Other statistical classifications
Altitude of the center (meters)920
Coastal municipalityNo
Island municipalityNo
Coastal areasNo
Level of urbanizationZone scarsamente popolate
Accessibility indices (in minutes)
Railway stations with active passenger service38
Access to the motorway network26
Airports108
Ports with passenger service58

News on TRAVELNOSTOP

Montalbano Elicona is a charming medieval village located on the slopes of the Nebrodi Mountains, in the province of Messina, Sicily. Its narrow cobbled streets, ancient stone houses, and picturesque panoramic views make it a unique and fascinating place to visit. One of the main attractions of Montalbano Elicona is the Frederick II Castle, an imposing fortress dating back to the 13th century that overlooks the village from the top of a hill. Inside the castle, you can admire medieval frescoes, antique furnishings, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley. Another point of interest is the Church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, a religious building dating back to the 14th century that houses valuable works of art, including paintings and sculptures of great historical and artistic value. For nature lovers, Montalbano Elicona offers the opportunity to explore the surroundings through charming trails that wind through oak forests, chestnut trees, and crystal-clear rivers. A must-see excursion is to the Nebrodi Park, a protected area that hosts a rich biodiversity and offers breathtaking views of the sea and the Aeolian Islands. Among the local culinary traditions, the production of typical cheeses stands out, such as pecorino and ricotta, which can be tasted at the numerous taverns and restaurants in the village. Also not to be missed are the typical sweets, such as cannoli and cassatelle, which will delight the palate of anyone who ventures into this wonderful location. Finally, Montalbano Elicona is famous for its numerous cultural and gastronomic events held throughout the year, including festivals, fairs, and celebrations that honor the traditions and history of the place. A trip to Montalbano Elicona is an unforgettable experience that will immerse you in a magical and authentic atmosphere, far from the chaos of modern life.

Travelnostop news on the municipality of Montalbano Elicona: