Among the most fascinating villages in Sicily is Castelbuono, set in the heart of the Madonie Park. Famous for its medieval castle and its food and wine traditions, the village guards a unique and rare treasure: ash manna.
What is Castelbuono manna?
Manna is a sugary sap that flows from the trunks of the ash trees grown in the countryside around the village. When it hardens in the sun it turns into sweet white crystals, hence its nickname, “the white gold of Sicily”.
Properties and benefits
Besides its distinctive taste, Castelbuono manna is also valued for its natural properties:
- It is a light, healthy sweetener.
- It has gentle laxative effects, helpful for digestion and stomach wellbeing.
- It has been used for centuries in herbal and natural medicine.
Manna and tradition
Producing manna is a tradition handed down from generation to generation. In Castelbuono it is used in local sweets, ice creams and liqueurs, making the village’s food truly unique.
Visiting Castelbuono means not only enjoying the beauty of its medieval streets and the charm of the Ventimiglia castle, but also discovering the deep bond between people and nature that has made manna a symbol of local identity.
