Festival of the Beautiful Lady of the Castle of Delia

2 Minutes of reading

Every year, in September, Delia transforms into a medieval village thanks to the enchanting Festival of the Beautiful Lady of the Castle, a historical reenactment that comes to life at the foot of the majestic “Castiddrazzu” the ancient Arab-Norman castle

Festa della Bella Castellana di Delia

The event is rooted in the legend of Beatrice, the young lady of the castle whose beauty and fate intertwine love, loyalty, and intrigue during the time of the Sicilian Vespers.

During the days of the festival, the streets fill with historical parades, ladies and knights, drummers, musicians, and flag throwers, recreating the atmosphere of bygone times. Theatrical performances and folk reenactments revive the story of the Lady of the Castle and her fortress. At the foot of the castle, on an open-air stage, the story of the Beautiful Lady of the Castle is performed - a play in dialect written by Lillo Montebello, set to music by his brother Totò Montebello and Pierangelo Carvello, based on the chronicle of Nicolò Speciale and later romanticized by Mezzabotta. 

This show, which combines popular theatre, music, and tradition, is the beating heart of the event and involves the entire community.

Alongside its historical and legendary dimension, the festival is also an opportunity to discover the authentic flavors of the region. At the foot of the castle, visitors can taste li cuddrireddri, Delia’s famous traditional pastries passed down through generations and created as a tribute to the Beautiful Lady, together with the renowned Delia PGI peaches, accompanied by local wine that reflects the rich food and wine heritage of the fertile “lands of Delia.” It’s an experience that blends culture, folklore, and gastronomy, engaging all the senses and leaving an unforgettable memory.

The Festival of the Beautiful Lady of the Castle is not just a historical reenactment, but a true journey through time and community spirit - a moment where myth and identity merge to offer visitors a unique immersion into the history and traditions that trace their origins to the Arab hamlet that once mirrored the rock of Sabuci, upon which the Castle of Delia was built, giving rise to the village later refounded by the Lucchese family at the end of the 16th century.