Cisternazza of Etna

The cisternazza is a typical circular Etnean structure that protects a well about 15 meters deep. The path will reach this structure through woods and lava flows.

foto cisternazza etna Photo by google

The only structure of this type existing in the Etna park, it is located next to another structure used in the past by local shepherds. In practice this place is a watering place for both humans and animals. Small lava stone basins have been built around the circular structure. Other pools are located in the surrounding area.

foto cisternazza etna Photo by google

The interior of the structure is a large empty space where there is a well from which the water flows.

foto cisternazza etna Photo by google

Often, around the cisternazza, it is possible to find horses or cows brought there by local breeders.

foto cisternazza etna Photo by google

The route starts from the road called quota mille near Randazzo and then winds its way into the Etna park. The subfloor is in beaten earth but easy to walk through. From Taormina the starting point is easily reachable by car. Take the motorway towards Catania. Fiumefreddo di Sicilia exit and at the roundabout head towards linguaglossa and from there to plain provenzana. At a certain point you will find the crossing for randazzo. That is the thousand altitude road. Follow it for about 12km.