Militello in Val di Catania is the Borgo dei Borghi 2025: what to see in Italy's most beautiful village

Militello in Val di Catania won the hearts of Italians and was awarded the prestigious title of Borgo dei Borghi 2025officially consecrating itself as the most beautiful village in Italy. The announcement came on the evening of Sunday 20 April 2025, during the final of the programme Il Borgo dei Borghi, broadcast on Rai3 and hosted by Camila Raznovich. The competition, organised by Rai Cultura, saw 20 finalist villages compete, one for each Italian region. Each locality told its own charm through evocative images, local stories, monuments, traditions and characters. Militello in Val di Catania stood out thanks to its historical, architectural and cultural identity. During the final evening, which was followed by a large television and online audience, Camila Raznovich accompanied the viewers on a fascinating journey along the Italian peninsula, assisted by a jury of experts who carefully assessed the strengths of each village.

The supremacy of villages in Sicily

Militello in Val di Catania's victory represents a success not only for the Sicilian village but for the entire region, which is confirmed as a cradle of culture, beauty and traditions. It is the fifth time that a Sicilian village has won the title, after the previous triumphs of Gangi (2014), Montalbano Elicona (2015), Sambuca di Sicilia (2016) and Petralia Soprana (2018). A record that testifies to the extraordinary wealth of Sicily's cultural heritage.

‘It is with great emotion that we welcomed the election of Militello in Val di Catania as Borgo dei borghi 2025. An extraordinary result for a municipality that, for its exceptional examples of late baroque architecture, had already been included, together with other towns in the Val di Noto, in the Unesco heritage list’.. This was said by the regional councillor for tourism Elvira Amata, commenting on the news concerning the Catanese city.

‘This is a territory - continues Amata - which over time has been able to grasp the right vision to foster cultural and tourism growth that certainly also contributes to optimising new economic opportunities for local businesses and residents. A commitment that fits perfectly with the contents of the Tourism Department's programming, which is constantly oriented towards supporting sustainable and quality development of both supply and demand. We will celebrate this result by increasingly pursuing actions to enhance the island's inland areas and our villages, which are often far from the main tourist flows'.

Why did Militello in Val di Catania win?

Militello in Val di Catania, located in the heart of eastern Sicily, halfway between Mount Etna and the Val di Noto, is a rare pearl of Sicilian Baroque. Founded in the Middle Ages, the town reached its peak between the 17th and 18th centuries, when it was rebuilt in late Baroque style following the devastating earthquake of 1693. Today, its historic centre is part of the UNESCO “Le città tardo barocche del Val di Noto”a recognition that testifies to the exceptional nature of its heritage.

The village convinced the jury and the public thanks to its perfect fusion of art, history and living tradition. Its monumental churches, noble palaces, fountains and squares are authentic masterpieces. But Militello is also popular tradition, with centuries-old religious festivals, ancient rituals and an intense and identifiable gastronomy.

A decisive role in Militello's success was played by its community, which enthusiastically and proudly participated in the bid. The support of the inhabitants, local institutions and the Militello diaspora around the world was fundamental. The village showed a human, authentic and welcoming face, able to excite and involve.

What to see in Militello in Val di Catania: unmissable places in the Borgo dei Borghi 2025

After being proclaimed Borgo dei Borghi 2025, Militello in Val di Catania is ready to welcome visitors with a rich itinerary among baroque churches, historical squares, noble palaces and timeless works of art. Let's discover together the most fascinating places in this Sicilian jewel.

1. Mother Church of St Nicholas and the Holy Saviour

The journey can only start from the majestic Mother Church of San Nicolò and the Santissimo Salvatore, an authentic spiritual and architectural symbol of the village. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, the church has a sober façade in local stone, embellished with elements in the classical Baroque style. Inside, with three naves, one can admire significant works such as the wooden statue of Saint Nicholas and 18th-century frescoes narrating episodes from the New Testament.

2. Shrine of Santa Maria della Stella

One of Militello's best-loved monuments, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Stella enchants with its Baroque grandeur. Also rebuilt after the earthquake, it is distinguished by a monumental staircase, a central portal framed by statues, and a majestic dome that dominates the scene. The interior, richly decorated and stuccoed, houses true artistic marvels.

3. Santa Maria della Stella Square

In front of the Sanctuary is Piazza Santa Maria della Stella, the beating heart of the village. Wide and harmonious, it is the place where public events, markets and fairs are concentrated. Its stone paving, elegant lampposts and backdrop of historic buildings contribute to a welcoming and evocative atmosphere.

4. Church of St Benedict Abbot

Another highlight is the Church of San Benedetto Abate, which blends elements of Sicilian Baroque and Mannerism. The work of architect Valeriano De Franchis, the church is striking for its external simplicity and soaring bell tower, but especially for its interior, where works such as The Last Communion of St Benedict by Sebastiano Conca and an 18th-century silver reliquary bust stand out.

5. Church of Santa Maria la Vetere

Among the oldest places in Militello is the Church of Santa Maria la Vetere, dating back to the Norman period (1090). A testimony to Sicilian architectural evolution, it mixes medieval and baroque elements. Its polychrome marble altar and wooden statue of the Madonna are masterpieces of devotion and art.

6. Barresi Branciforte Castle

In a dominant position above the village stands the Barresi Branciforte Castle, a symbol of the feudal power of Sicily's noble families. Built around a mediaeval central courtyard, it still retains towers, walls and an imposing structure, although today it has been partially modified due to privatisation and remodelling in the 20th century.

7. Baldanza-Denaro Palace

Among the most elegant civil buildings in Militello is the Palazzo Baldanza-Denaro, a splendid example of 17th-century noble architecture. Its carved stone portal, wrought-iron balconies and decorated salons make it one of the most fascinating residences in Baroque Sicily. Today it hosts cultural events, exhibitions and concerts.

8. Zizza Nymph Fountain

The Fountain of the Nymph Zizza is one of the most curious and fascinating monuments in the village. Linked to the legend of the nymph protector of crops and water, the fountain is a perfect blend of art, mythology and popular tradition. The central sculpture represents Zizza in all her grace, surrounded by symbols of fertility and abundance.

9. Sebastiano Guzzone' Municipal Museum

For an immersion in local culture and history, the Museo Civico ‘Sebastiano Guzzone’, housed in the former San Domenico Convent, is a must-see. The collection includes works of sacred art, archaeological finds, traditional Sicilian objects and temporary exhibitions dedicated to Mediterranean art and local history.