Discover the Abete delle Madonie: a hidden treasure in the heart of the Polizzi Generosa Museum.
The Polizzi Generosa Museum, located in the old 17th-century Jesuit College - now a magnificent Town Hall - houses a unique botanical treasure: the Abies nebrodensis, better known as the Abete delle Madonie. This rare botanical species is found exclusively between 1400 and 1600 metres above sea level on the northern slopes of Monte Scalone and Vallone Madonna degli Angeli.
This fir tree, known locally as "arvulu cruci" for its cross-shaped branches, is a symbol of Sicilian flora. The Italian Botanical Company has recognised it as an emblem of the region, not only for its historical-scientific importance, but also for its unique bio-geographical features and fascinating beauty.
The museum offers an immersive experience through a sensory exhibition divided into five thematic areas:
- The Bosco Incantato: where video projectors recreate the atmosphere of the natural forest.
- The Popolo del Bosco: with sounds and images of fauna and flora in an immersive context.
- The Meraviglie del Bosco: exploring the morphology of the region through wooden platforms.
- The Grandi Saggi del Bosco and the Storia dei Trenta Saggi del Bosco: where the natural context of Abies nebrodensis is explored.
- The Storia dell'Abete delle Madonie: which tells the story of this species, from prehistory to the present day, emphasising conservation efforts.
Each room is equipped with information panels, pictures and videos illustrating the unique characteristics of these trees. The experience culminates with an interactive multimedia wall that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of the Abete delle Madonie.
The museum is part of an extensive conservation project, which includes the Life Natura and the Abies nebrodensis Conservation Apq. Carried out by the Madonie Park Authority, the University of Palermo and various local authorities, these initiatives aim to protect and increase the population of these unique fir trees.
Once thought to be extinct, Abies nebrodensis is now considered a critically endangered species by the World Conservation Union.
Thanks to conservation efforts, the population of these firs is gradually increasing, with over 30 adult individuals, of which 24 are sexually mature, present in their natural habitat.
Visit the Polizzi Generosa Museum and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Abete delle Madonie, a true symbol of Sicily's ecological evolution and biodiversity.
Where
Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 11, 90028 Polizzi Generosa (PA)
