Castelmola

Castelmola (Sicilian: Castermula) is a comune (municipality) in the Province of Messina in the Italian region Sicily, located about 170 kilometres (110 mi) east of Palermo and about 40 kilometres (25 mi) southwest of Messina. As of 31 December 2004, it had a population of 1,107 and an area of 16.4 square kilometres (6.3 sq mi).^[3] It is one of I Borghi più belli d'Italia ("The most beautiful villages of Italy").^[4]

Castelmola
Comune
Comune di Castelmola
Location of Castelmola
Castelmola Location of Castelmola in Italy Show map of Italy Castelmola Castelmola (Sicily) Show map of Sicily
Coordinates: 37°52′N 15°17′E
Country	Italy
Region	Sicily
Metropolitan city	Messina (ME)
Area [1]
• Total	16.4 km2 (6.3 sq mi)
Elevation	529 m (1,736 ft)
Population  (Dec. 2004)[2]
• Total	1,107
• Density	68/km2 (170/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code	98030
Dialing code	0942
Website	Official website

Castelmola has ancient Greek origins. Situated above Taormina, it formerly served as its acropolis. In the last decades it has become a popular tourist destination. On Labour Day, which in Italy falls on 1 May, there is an annual music festival "Castelrock", held in the main square, which features live music performances by local musicians.^[5]

Castelmola borders the following municipalities: Gaggi, Letojanni, Mongiuffi Melia, Taormina.

Demographic evolution

Renovated historic path of Saracens in mountains between Taormina and Castelmola

Section of ruins of the 11th century Norman-Saracen castle

Typical structure of medieval Castelmola