Plain of the Albanians

 Piana degli Albanesi stands in a beautiful landscape, in the mountains west of Palermo, and is known as the nerve centre of Sicilian arbëreshe culture: it was in fact founded in the fifteenth century by Albanian refugees fleeing from the Ottoman advance. 

The community of Piana degli Albanesi has kept its cultural identity alive over the centuries, as witnessed by the use of their language in daily life. Another distinctive element is the practice of the Byzantine rite, which is reflected in the architecture and sacred art of its churches, including the church of S. Demetrio (Chiesa Madre), of Greek rite and of late sixteenth-century origin and the church of S. Giorgio Megalomartire, the oldest in the town.  Piana degli Albanesi celebrates its roots with numerous cultural and religious events, including the most famous is the Easter festival, which attracts visitors from all over Sicily and beyond. During Holy Week there are heartfelt celebrations of the Byzantine rite, in which the inhabitants participate wearing traditional Albanian costumes.

In addition to its cultural and religious importance, Piana degli Albanesi is known for the production of excellent agricultural products, in particular olive oil, cheese and ricotta. Thelatter is also used to fill the famous cannoli, which are considered among the best in the region.  Finally, with its artificial lake, which offers a picturesque backdrop to the town, the city is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts.