Castagno dei Cento Cavalli

Top-rated.online cuts through the clutter, highlighting only the reviews that are most helpful, earn the most likes, or come from the most active contributors. The chestnut impresses with its history. We went to see it in June. Besides the chestnut itself, we could also take a stroll in the beautiful park. The road to this place wasn't really tricky. Amazing tree! We visited in winter so no leafs. Unmissable attraction in the Catania province located in Sant'Alfio: 2.200 year-old chestnut, whose story is rooted between history and legend. A quick stop if you are in the Etna neighbourhood. Definitely advised also a break at the small bar located in front of the parking, serving made of local products. My sister is a botanist, and so we try to see natural wonders whenever we can. Googling «famous trees of Italy» was a first for me, but it was well worth the drive up the slopes of Mount Etna to see this millenia old marvel! The drive up the mountain was part of the experience. Narrow village streets and steep switchbacks were a new experience for those us used to North American roads. We were cut off by fearless nonnas and passed more times than I have been since I was a teenager learning to drive. The signage was adequate, however, and we had no trouble finding the tree. Prior to the is a cafe in whose parking lot we left our car to approach on foot. For a smaller vehicle, you could have driven right up to the tree. Greeting us there was Alfio, a kind soul who has watched over the for many years. He sat at the gate, as he does from 10h to 13h every day, whittling statuettes and flutes from the mountain. He kindly invited us within the circular fence protecting the to experience its beauty up close. The is exceptional in its size. Comprised of three trunks sharing a common root, it spreads a massive umbrella of foliage. In a time when giant forests are the norm for fantasy shows on streaming and screen, this is a real world behemoth. The was fruiting, and we were encouraged to take them back to our residence and roast them. After our return to the cafe, we had an espresso and bought apples grown in orchards nourished by the volcanic ash of Etna. The flavor and texture were a bisou at the end of a beautiful visit. Peaceful location for a pleasant short walk and a bit of history. Also has a small play park for children. Not worth a dedicated trip but certainly good for a short stop en route to another location. It isn't one chestnut, there are more old chestnuts, but the story sells reputation. Beautiful but not sensational. however, such old trees must be protected at all costs. A piece of history. Public park open 24/7 with free parking, a kids playground. Very short walk from parking lot to the tree. A bit out of the way by car with nothing else going on around it. It was fairly interesting. Free and free parking nice church in town. It was an awe-inspiring visit, this is like a sanctuary and the place gives an immense sense of peace and connection. The plant itself is majestic and its guardian, Alfio, explains its history with passion. With his 30+ years of experience watching the tree, its inhabitants and the visitors, he’s got many stories to tell! Very peaceful atmosphere, there was relaxing music along the the visit. Parking is not a problem. Best to visit during the day, the security guard is very helpful, he was explaning and showing us some magical features, as the branches had different shapes. There is also the view of Etna Volcano nearby Website change monitoring Monitor any webpage for changes – get instant email alerts when prices drop, new jobs are posted, products come back in stock, or competitors update their sites. See how the number of reviews and average review scores have changed over time.