Enna is a historic hilltop city in the very heart of Sicily, often called the “belvedere” (panoramic viewpoint) and the “ombelico” (navel) of the island. At 931 meters above sea level, it is the highest provincial capital in Italy, offering sweeping views across Sicily’s interior and a rich layering of myth, history, and architecture. Enna sits almost exactly at the center of Sicily, dominating the landscape from its elevated plateau.

Known in antiquity as Henna (Greek: ???a, Latin: Henna/Haenna), the city was famed for its sanctuary of Demeter, goddess of fertility and agriculture. The myth of Persephone’s abduction by Hades is deeply tied to Enna’s landscape, particularly the nearby Lake Pergusa.

Its natural defenses—sheer cliffs and a plateau summit—made it one of the strongest fortresses in the ancient and medieval world. Cicero described it as Mediterranea maxime, the most central place in Sicily.

During Norman and Swabian rule, Enna was a key stronghold. The Lombardy Castle, one of the largest medieval castles in Italy, was a seat of power and hosted the first Sicilian Parliament under Frederick II.

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