Pilgrimage
A Ride to One of Palermo's Most Coveted Places
Every year, on September 4th, thousands gather to make the journey up Monte Pellegrino (literally transalted – it means the Pilgrim’s Mountain) to celebrate Palermo’s patron saint, Santa Rosalia—locally known as “A Santuzza.” In 2024, this marked the 400th recurrence of the festivity, making it one of the oldest traditions in Sicily’s capital. It holds sacred importance for locals and attracts many tourists and pilgrims who visit Palermo throughout the year.
What makes this pilgrimage unique is the iconic cobblestone road, “Scala Vecchia,” which winds its way up the mountain to the sanctuary of Santa Rosalia—a small church nestled inside a cave, where the saint's remains were brought in 1624 during a plague that beset Palermo. Miraculously, the city was cured of the plague, and ever since, believers and non-believers alike have visited this sacred site.
This is a sacred site deeply woven into the spiritual fabric of Palermo. The sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, hidden within the mountain’s rugged contours, serves as a powerful symbol of faith and hope for many. Pilgrims make their way to this hallowed ground to pay homage to the patron saint, seeking solace and inspiration in the very spot where miracles were believed to have occurred. It provides a space for for visitors to connect with both the landscape and the rich spiritual heritage it represents.
Monte Pellegrino rises on the northwestern side of Palermo, offering a stunning view: on one side lies the historic millennial port, while the other boasts the pristine, crystal-clear Gulf of Mondello. For local cyclists, this mountain serves as an urban playground. From the paved roads leading up to the panoramic summit—ideal for road cyclists—to rugged trails, single-tracks, and leg-breaking cobbles for mountain bikers and gravel riders, the mountain has something for everyone.
The mountain also holds historic significance due to its strategic position overlooking the city’s port. During WWII, it housed several anti-aircraft military posts and bunkers, remnants of which can still be visited today, attracting history enthusiasts as well.
Starting from the single-track CX-style trails in the Favorita park at the foot of the mountain, riders can progress to “Scala Vecchia,” with its rugged surface and steep ramps that reach slopes of up to 20%. Upon reaching higher elevations, riders will find themselves surrounded by cluster pines, Mediterranean scrub, and WWII bunkers. Monte Pellegrino represents the perfect training ground for cyclists seeking a challenge, all without having to venture far from the city.
This is also where my passion for cycling began. Although I cycle up Monte Pellegrino at least a few times a week, I still vividly remember the feeling of reaching the summit for the very first time. The burning in my legs after each pedal stroke, the elevated heart rate, and the sensation of being out of breath all vanish when I finally reach the top, overwhelmed by a profound sense of accomplishment—a feeling I still chase during every new ride, five years later.
If you’re planning a cycling trip to Sicily, don’t miss the opportunity to ride up Monte Pellegrino in Palermo. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist seeking a challenge or a casual rider looking to soak in breathtaking views, this ride offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Monte Pellegrino isn't just a ride; it's a journey that will inspire your love for cycling and connection to the beauty of Sicily—So gear up, it will be a “Pilgrimage” of a lifetime.
-Mike.
