Every year, on the third Sunday in July, the inhabitants of Polizzi Generosa climb to the highest peaks of the Madonie Mountains to celebrate the ancient tradition of the nivaroli (snow merchants).
The nivaroli were men who, in spring and summer, would go forth with their donkeys to collect frozen snow in the neviere, deep natural pits sheltered from the sun where large quantities of snow accumulated during the winter and lasted until the following summer. They used to bring ice to Polizzi, or to the coastal towns, to preserve food or to create the ancient Sicilian granitas. It is the latter that are the stars of the snow festival: after a splendid hike through majestic valleys, dense beech forests and rocky peaks with breathtaking views, participants reach the Fossa della Principessa, 1906 metres above sea level, and make the typical Sicilian granita according to the original recipe. Organic fruit juices such as melon, mulberry and citrus fruits are allowed to cool and thicken in containers placed directly on the remaining snowdrifts and are then enjoyed in a beautiful natural setting and in a context of great joy and conviviality. Come and discover an ancient mountain craft, born in the 16th century under Spanish rule, and experience the authentic taste of Sicily at high altitude!
