Via dei Frati – Stage No. 1 (Mines Variant)

Via dei Frati – Stage No. 1 (Mines Variant)

Experience: Folklore, Mines, Nature

Route: outdoor, out-and-back

Km: 22,2 (one way only)

Duration: 4-6 h (one way only)

Difficulty: challenging

Terrain: asphalt and dirt

Route suitable: bicycle

Ascent / Elevation gain: 1260

Descent / Elevation loss: 1178

2 Minutes of reading

This route is part of the vie lente (“slow paths”) and is inspired by the path of the Friars.

In past centuries, for generations, friars crossed the Sicilian mountains and countryside on foot or on the backs of mules to ask for la cerca, that is, alms to bring back to their convents. The departure point is the Monumental Calvary Complex of Delia, following the trail leading to Bosco Gabara as you exit the town. You reach it by turning at the first road on the right heading north and continuing straight along this path until you arrive at the Gabara Mining Park. Follow the track, and after about 500 meters you will find the extraordinary San Cataldo Giant Bench; continuing shortly afterward, you will come across the Persico Sulfur Mine. Continue along the trail through the forest for about 7 km until you reach a place called Lo Stagnone, visible on your right. After about 2 km you will arrive at the Mustigarufi Equipped Area, and after another 2 km you will officially enter the State Forest Park and the SP160 road. Head north along the road, surrounded by the gentle countryside, until it turns into a dirt road, which you must follow without deviation until reaching the entrance to the town of Maranopoli, your final destination.
 

The stages of the itinerary

 
Mustigarufi State Park
Mustigarufi State Park
Ten kilometers from San Cataldo, along the provincial road to Marianopoli, Mustigarufi State Park welcomes visitors with an impressive grove of eucalyptus and pine trees.
Gabara Wood and Salito River
Gabara Wood and Salito River
The Gabara Wood is a charming corner where nature, history, and the memory of labor intertwine deeply.
Gabara Mining Park
Gabara Mining Park
The Gabara Mining Park represents a significant example of the recovery and enhancement of a historic mining area.
Monumental Complex “Il Calvario”
Monumental Complex “Il Calvario”
Every town has its own Calvary, a sacred place usually located in an isolated and elevated position compared to the settlement.
San Cataldo Giant Bench
San Cataldo Giant Bench
The San Cataldo Giant Bench, designed by international artist Fabrizio Gazzarri and inaugurated in 2021, has quickly become an icon of slow tourism and outdoor art.
 

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