Parco Fluviale dell'Alcantara

The Parco Fluviale dell’Alcantara protects a varied river landscape on Etna’s northern slope. Its features include the basalt Gole dell’Alcantara, the river pools known as the Gurne, Monte Mojo and lava formations near Melicocchita.

Why it matters

The park brings together volcanic geology, flowing water and the habitats along the Alcantara. Lava flows shaped the valley, and the river has cut through them to form the basalt gorge. The protected territory also includes river pools, volcanic features and cultivated landscapes along the lower course.

What to notice

In the Gole dell’Alcantara, the basalt forms striking columns along the river. Downstream, the Gurne are broader pools where the water slows among low cascades. Monte Mojo is a volcanic cone within the valley, while the park also identifies lava formations at contrada Melicocchita. Riparian vegetation and citrus groves add to the variety of the river landscape.

Context and history

The park encompasses parts of twelve municipalities along the Alcantara valley. Its name derives from the Arabic al-qanṭarah, meaning “the bridge”; the river was known in antiquity as the Akesines. Above the valley, the Cuba di Santa Domenica near Castiglione di Sicilia is one of the area’s Byzantine religious monuments.