Villafranca  Sicula

Villafranca Sicula is a municipality located in the province of Agrigento, in Sicily. This small village, nestled among the hills and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, boasts an ancient and fascinating history that dates back to medieval times. The origins of Villafranca Sicula date back to the Norman period, when the territory was ruled by feudal lords and local nobles. Over the centuries, the town has been under various dominations, passing under the control of the Aragonese, the Bourbons, and finally the Savoy. The historic center of Villafranca Sicula is characterized by narrow cobbled streets, ancient churches, and noble palaces that testify to the wealth and prestige of a bygone era. Among the most significant architectural features is the Mother Church, a sacred building dating back to the 18th century, which houses precious works of art and frescoes of great historical and artistic value. Daily life in Villafranca Sicula is marked by the slow rhythms of the Sicilian countryside, with olive groves, vineyards, and citrus orchards stretching as far as the eye can see. The inhabitants of the town are known for their hospitality and deep connection to local traditions, which are evident in the popular festivals, gastronomic events, and ancient customs that are still respected and passed down from generation to generation. Villafranca Sicula is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area and discovering the natural and cultural beauties of western Sicily. In close proximity to the town are archaeological sites of great interest, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, which testify to the greatness and magnificence of the ancient civilizations that inhabited these lands. In conclusion, Villafranca Sicula is a charming place where time seems to have stood still, and where history, nature, and tradition blend into a unique and evocative mix. Anyone who decides to visit this small Sicilian municipality will be fascinated and captivated by its authenticity and timeless beauty.

ISTAT code: 084043
Telephone: 0925 550041
Mayor: Gaetano Bruccoleri

Available Opportunities

Neighboring municipalities

Burgio, Calamonaci, Caltabellotta, Lucca Sicula, Villafranca Sicula

Group Membership:

Tourist Vocation

  • Historical-cultural
  • Religious

Companies, Institutions and Points of Interest in the municipality of Villafranca  Sicula:

Villafranca Sicula is a Sicilian municipality rich in local businesses that actively contribute to the economy and community life. The commercial activities in the area offer a wide range of products and services, meeting the needs of residents and visitors. Among the most significant businesses in the municipality are numerous grocery stores and supermarkets that provide fresh and quality products. The small artisan shops offer typical local products, such as cheeses, cured meats, and traditional sweets, representing the authenticity and culinary tradition of the area. The catering activities are another strength of the local businesses in Villafranca Sicula. The restaurants and trattorias in the municipality offer dishes from Sicilian cuisine, prepared with fresh and genuine ingredients. The bars and pastry shops are ideal places to enjoy a coffee or a sweet treat, perhaps while strolling through the picturesque streets of the historic center. The commercial activities also offer essential services for the community, such as pharmacies, medical offices, post offices, and banks. These businesses contribute to the well-being and safety of residents, ensuring access to quality services and professionalism. The local businesses in Villafranca Sicula are also active in the tourism sector, offering hospitality services such as bed and breakfasts, agritourism, and holiday homes. These facilities welcome tourists from around the world, offering them a comfortable and authentic stay immersed in the beauty of the Sicilian countryside. Furthermore, local businesses are also engaged in the craftsmanship sector, producing unique and high-quality artifacts. The artisanal products of Villafranca Sicula represent the creativity and skill of local master craftsmen, who pass down ancient techniques and traditions. In conclusion, the local businesses in Villafranca Sicula are a fundamental element for the economic and social development of the municipality. Thanks to their variety and quality, they contribute to making Villafranca Sicula a unique and welcoming place, where tradition and innovation come together to create a vibrant and dynamic economic fabric.

Community and Government

Food and Beverage

Landmarks and Outdoors

Retail

Short-term rentals

Transport

Statistics

The territory of Villafranca Sicula, with an area of 17,629 sq km and a population of 1321 inhabitants in 2023, appears as a place of small dimensions but with an interesting potential for investors. The presence of 93 foreigners indicates a certain openness towards international tourism and the possibility of attracting investments from external communities. From a housing point of view, the 1086 dwellings in the municipality offer opportunities for real estate development and the creation of new housing solutions. However, the significant number of unoccupied dwellings (516) could represent a critical issue to address in order to promote growth and vitality in the area. As for the tourist offer, there are currently no hotel or accommodation facilities, but this could represent an opportunity for investments in the tourism sector. The lack of hotels, farmhouses, hostels, or other accommodation facilities suggests the possibility of developing new solutions to welcome visitors and enhance the natural and cultural resources of the area. The altimetric bands of the territory, with most of the area between 0 and 299 meters above sea level, indicate the presence of a predominantly flat landscape that could be enhanced for nature-related tourist activities and relaxation. In conclusion, Villafranca Sicula presents itself as a territory with development and investment potential, especially in the real estate and tourism sectors. The presence of a small population and the lack of accommodation facilities offer space for growth and innovation, while the geographical position and natural characteristics of the territory represent an opportunity to attract visitors and investors interested in enhancing local resources.

ISTAT COD AND MUNICIPALITIES
ISTAT code084043
MunicipalityVillafranca  Sicula
INHABITANTS (2023)
Total Inhabitants1321
Males643
Females678
TERRITORIAL SURFACES
HOUSES 2021
Occupied dwellings as of December 31st570
Unoccupied dwellings as of December 31st516
Homes as of December 31st1.086
Stranieri
Males55
Females38
Total93
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
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
Tourist Hotel Residences
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
Total Hotels
Exercises0
Beds0
Rooms0
Bathrooms0
Campsites and Tourist Villages
Number0
Beds0
Rental accommodation managed in an entrepreneurial manner
Number0
Beds0
Farmhouses
Number0
Beds0
Youth Hostels
Number0
Beds0
Holiday homes
Number0
Beds0
Alpine refuges
Number0
Beds0
Other accommodation facilities
Number0
Beds0
Bed & Breakfast
Number0
Beds0
Total non-hotel establishments
Number0
Beds0
Total accommodation facilities
Number0
Beds0
2020 Museums and Similar Institutions
Number of museum institutions
Number of visitors
Fasce altimetriche
PERIMETER_KM19.78
AREA_KMQ17.63
0-299 (%)76.5
300-599 (%)23.5
600-899 (%)0.0
900-1.199 (%)0.0
1.200-1.499 (%)0.0
1.500-1.999 (%)0.0
2.000-2.499 (%)0.0
>=2.500 (%)0.0
% Total100
Agrarian region
Agricultural Region Code8402
Denomination: Agricultural RegionCOLLINE DEL CARBO
Other statistical classifications
Altitude of the center (meters)330
Coastal municipalityNo
Island municipalityNo
Coastal areasNo
Level of urbanizationZone scarsamente popolate
Accessibility indices (in minutes)
Railway stations with active passenger service105
Access to the motorway network53
Airports99
Ports with passenger service56
Piano Strategico Nazionale per le Aree Interne
Già Area 2014-2020SI
SNAI 2020E - Periferico
Aree SNAI 2021 - 2027Terre Sicane

The municipality of Villafranca Sicula, located in Sicily, has been included in the National Strategic Plan for Inner Areas (PSNAI) both in the 2014-2020 period and in the new programming period 2021-2027. This indicates that the municipality has been recognized as part of an area that requires specific interventions to counteract phenomena of depopulation, economic marginalization, and difficulties in accessing essential services. In the 2014-2020 period, Villafranca Sicula had already been identified as an area to support, and in the 2020 SNAI it was classified as "E - Peripheral", suggesting that the municipality is relatively further away from main service centers and may face greater challenges in terms of connectivity and integration with larger urban centers. For the period 2021-2027, Villafranca Sicula has been included in the SNAI area called "Terre Sicane". This implies that the municipality will be part of a coordinated territorial approach aimed at developing integrated strategies for the socio-economic strengthening of the area. The policies and interventions envisaged by the PSNAI may include improving access to services, supporting local economic activities, enhancing natural and cultural resources, and strengthening infrastructure and mobility. In conclusion, for Villafranca Sicula, inclusion in the PSNAI represents an opportunity to address the challenges related to its condition as an inner and peripheral area, through the support of national and regional policies aimed at promoting balanced and sustainable development of the territory.

News on TRAVELNOSTOP

Villafranca Sicula is a municipality located in the province of Agrigento, in Sicily, rich in attractions that make it an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the culture and history of the island. One of the main attractions of Villafranca Sicula is the Chiaramonte Castle, an imposing structure dating back to the 14th century that dominates the surrounding landscape. This castle, with its towers and impressive walls, represents an important example of medieval architecture in Sicily and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. For nature lovers, Villafranca Sicula offers the opportunity to explore the Madonie Park, a protected area that hosts a rich variety of flora and fauna. Here you can go hiking or cycling, admiring breathtaking views and breathing the fresh air of the surrounding woods. For those interested in Sicilian history and culture, Villafranca Sicula offers the opportunity to visit the Mother Church, a religious building dating back to the 18th century that houses precious works of art and historical frescoes. Furthermore, the Civic Museum of Villafranca Sicula hosts a collection of archaeological finds and works of art that tell the history of the municipality and the surrounding region. Finally, for those who want to savor Sicilian culinary tradition, Villafranca Sicula offers a wide choice of restaurants and trattorias where you can taste typical dishes of the local cuisine, such as pasta with sardines, caponata, and Sicilian cannoli. Furthermore, the municipality is famous for the production of fine wines, which can be tasted at local wineries. In conclusion, Villafranca Sicula is a destination that offers a unique combination of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, making it an ideal place for those who want to experience an authentic and unforgettable experience in Sicily.

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