Donnalucata

Donnalucata is a seaside hamlet located 8 km from the municipality of Scicli, in the province of Ragusa in Sicily.

This location, inhabited since prehistoric times, was long fought over by Normans and Saracens. In 1091, according to religious tradition, Roger of Altavilla managed to defeat his enemies thanks to the intervention of the Virgin Mary, who appeared on a white horse. A shrine was built on the site attracting the first inhabitants.

The name supposedly derives from the ancient spring, already venerated by the Greeks, which a Muslim traveller wanted to call the 'fountain of the hours', because it seemed to flow intermittently during the hours of prayer.

Today, Donnalucata is a popular seaside resort for its wide beaches and fine golden sand, while inland, greenhouse farming for the cultivation of early vegetables and flowers is flourishing.