Climbing on the Rocca of Cefalù between nature, history and myth

Behind the historic center of Cefalù, just beyond the red roofs and the profile of the Cathedral, stands the Rocca, a large limestone cliff 268 meters high that dominates the whole landscape. It’s impossible not to notice.

The Rocca is not just a beautiful climb or a panoramic point. It is a place that contains ancient stories, archaeological remains and breathtaking views. The very name of Cefalù could come from here, from the ancient Greek term Kephaloidion, which means “head”, for the shape of the rock that looks like a great human leader. And the legend goes even further: according to a Greek myth, the cliff was born from the transformation of the shepherd Dafni into stone, by the god Hermes. A gesture made to save her soul and make it eternal.

The excursion starts from Via Saraceni, easily accessible from Corso Ruggero. The path, immersed in the Mediterranean maquis, winds between low trees, fragrant bushes and ancient walls. Already in the first few minutes of ascent you can feel the strength of the place: not only for the fatigue – there is, especially in the steepest sections – but for the atmosphere. Around there are always new views, you can see caves, remains of fortifications, fragments of history left there, between the stones and the wind.

One of the most fascinating points is the Temple of Diana, a megalithic building dating back to pre-Roman times, surrounded by mystery and legend. Then you go up again, to the top: from there, the view is simply incredible. You can see the entire gulf, the city from above, the surrounding hills and, on clear days, even Capo d’Orlando to the east and the contours of Palermo to the west.

The excursion lasts about two hours between return. It is recommended comfortable shoes, water and want to be surprised. Because the Rocca di Cefalù is not only a walk: it is a journey through time, in nature and inside a quieter Sicily, but deeply alive