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Convento della Croce

4.3
·138 reviews·, Italy

Ancient Franciscan convent atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Scicli and a glimpse into history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
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Convento della Croce

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient Franciscan convent atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Scicli and a glimpse into history. InstagramReddit

4.3
(138 reviews)

"Brilliant hill top former convent and church overlooking Scicli. The view is amazing from up here and well worth the climb. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The climb up and exploring the site requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Navigate Carefully

Google Maps can be unreliable; follow road SP40 or use footpaths. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Scicli Views

Panoramic Scicli Views

Hilltop

Breathtaking vistas of Scicli and the surrounding landscape, especially stunning at sunset.

InstagramReddit
Ancient Convent Ruins

Ancient Convent Ruins

Convent Complex

Explore the historic remains of this ancient Franciscan convent, offering a glimpse into the past.

InstagramReddit
Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum

Within the Convento

Discover ancient artifacts excavated from the Kamarina and Ispica archaeological parks.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Convento della Croce offers breathtaking panoramas, especially at sunset. Visit in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light over Scicli. Be aware that access might require a 'green pass' as mentioned by some visitors, so check current requirements before you go. Reddit

Navigating to the Convento

Finding the Convento della Croce can be tricky; Google Maps might not always lead you directly by car. Look for signs along road SP40 or consider the footpath for a more scenic approach. Reddit Allow ample time to reach the hilltop site. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Magical city lights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Il convento della Croce è uno dei complessi più antichi e affascinanti di Scicli. Il complesso, fondato da frati minori dell'ordine francescano, si trova in cima al colle detto della Croce. Posto bellissimo e panorama mozzafiato! Dove si trova? Collina della Croce, 97018 Scicli (RG) Orario di apertura: oggi 3 settembre solo di pomeriggio: 13,30 - 18,30 Prima domenica di ogni mese ingresso gratu...
ilovescicli
0 likes • 8.7K views

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The climb up and exploring the site requires good footwear. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Navigate Carefully

Google Maps can be unreliable; follow road SP40 or use footpaths. Reddit :world_map:

Il parco della forza è uno dei siti entrato dal 2019 nel parco archeologico di Kamarina e Ispica; insieme al museo archeologico di Kamarina, l’area archeologica di Cada d’Ispica, il convento della croce a Scicli e al museo archeologico ibleo di Ragusa. L’ingresso è situato in una zona diversa rispetto a quella che da il navigatore (probabilmente per i lavori che stanno facendo). Il parco è stato d...
siciliana_inviaggio
8 likes • 262 views
• La bellezza del Convento della Croce☉ Supportaci con un like, un commento o una condivisione❤ #colledellacroce #terradisicilia #siciliadascoprire #conventodellacroce #tesoridisicilia #architetturacinquecentesca #prolocoscicli #scicli #pilloledisicilia #igvisitsicily #sicilianjourney #sicilia_capitale
prolocoscicli
49 likes • 3K views

☀️ Visit with Daylight

Essential for safely navigating the paths, especially when walking down. Reddit :sunrise:

📸 Capture the Sunset

The views are spectacular during golden hour and sunset. Instagram :camerawithflash:

MAST Secret Night After movie Convento della Croce - 11 agosto Dj set @deena___abdelwahed @sistersofrave Video credit: @passengers_eye MAST AERE 2023
mast_fest
120 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The climb up and exploring the site requires good footwear. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Navigate Carefully

Google Maps can be unreliable; follow road SP40 or use footpaths. Reddit :world_map:

☀️ Visit with Daylight

Essential for safely navigating the paths, especially when walking down. Reddit :sunrise:

📸 Capture the Sunset

The views are spectacular during golden hour and sunset. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🧐 Check Entry Requirements

Some visitors noted needing a 'green pass' for entry. Reddit :ticket:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(138 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the brilliant hilltop location of Convento della Croce, highlighting its amazing panoramic views over Scicli and the surrounding sea. The historical convent ruins and the onsite museum with ancient artifacts are also significant draws. While finding the site can be a challenge, the friendly staff and the profound beauty and peace of the place make it a highly recommended experience. Reddit+1

"Brilliant hill top former convent and church overlooking Scicli. The view is amazing from up here and well worth the climb up by road and footpath. You can see over the whole town and away to the sea in the distance. There is the remains of the convent to look round as well as a museum of ancient artefacts excavated from the area. The staff are helpful and will guide you round. Go up in good time with the sun up. If you are walking down you will need daylight to see clearly on the path."

Desmond Cole

"Most beautiful experience in scicli. Best place and awesome sightseeing. The worst part is to find it. google maps didn't find the car driving pass but in the map you can see it road sp40 and turn."

Emanuele Carrella

"A profoundly beautiful and peaceful place, ancient hilltop overlooking Scicli."

Rochelle Holt

What People Like

Amazing panoramic views
Historic convent ruins
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Difficult to find

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reaching Convento della Croce can be a bit challenging. While Google Maps might not always provide the best car route, look for signs along road SP40. Some visitors recommend using the footpath for a more scenic approach. Reddit It's advisable to allow ample time for the journey to this hilltop location. Reddit

Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but visitors typically find ways to reach the site by car, often navigating through the surrounding roads. Reddit Consider parking in Scicli and walking up if you prefer. Reddit

Yes, there are footpaths leading up to the Convento della Croce. Reddit This can be a more rewarding experience, offering beautiful views along the way, but ensure you have daylight to see the path clearly. Reddit

Many visitors suggest approaching via road SP40 and looking for specific turn-offs. Reddit Alternatively, the footpath offers a more immersive experience. Reddit Planning your route in advance is recommended. Reddit

Public transport options directly to the Convento della Croce are not widely mentioned. It's likely best to reach Scicli by public transport and then arrange local transport or walk to the site. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Convento della Croce is generally possible, but some visitors have noted that access might require a 'green pass' or similar documentation. Reddit It's best to check the latest entry requirements before your visit. Reddit

Opening hours can vary. One source mentioned it being open in the afternoon from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM on a specific date. TikTok Always verify the current operating hours before planning your trip. TikTok

While specific fee information isn't always detailed, some visitors mention needing a 'green pass' for entry, suggesting there might be a nominal fee or specific access protocols. Reddit Confirm details upon arrival or check official local tourism sites. Reddit

Yes, the Convento della Croce has been used for special events like 'MAST Secret Night' featuring DJ sets, indicating it can be accessible for evening visits, offering amazing night views of the city. InstagramReddit

A 'green pass' was mentioned by a visitor as being required for entry. Reddit This might refer to health or identification documentation, so it's wise to inquire about current protocols. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire hilltop offers stunning photographic opportunities. The panoramic views over Scicli are particularly popular, especially during sunset. InstagramReddit Don't miss capturing the ancient convent ruins and the surrounding landscape. Instagram

Photography rules within the museum are not explicitly stated. It's generally advisable to be respectful of any posted signs or ask staff for clarification before taking pictures of artifacts. Reddit

Late afternoon, leading into sunset, is highly recommended for photography due to the beautiful golden hour light. Instagram The night views of the city are also spectacular. Reddit

Specific drone regulations for this area are not mentioned. However, it's always best to check local aviation laws and any site-specific rules before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramas. Instagram A tripod can be beneficial for sunset and night shots. Reddit Consider a versatile zoom lens for capturing details of the ruins and landscape. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Culture

Founded by Franciscan friars, the Convento della Croce is one of Scicli's oldest and most fascinating complexes, dating back to AD 1225. Instagram+1 It sits atop the hill known as 'Colle della Croce'. Instagram

The museum houses ancient artifacts that have been excavated from nearby archaeological sites, including the Kamarina and Ispica parks. Reddit It offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. Reddit

Yes, the Convento della Croce is integrated into the Parco Archeologico di Kamarina e Ispica, which also includes the Kamarina archaeological museum and the Cada d’Ispica area. Instagram

The complex showcases significant 16th-century architecture, reflecting its historical importance and the architectural trends of the period. Instagram

The 'Colle della Croce' (Hill of the Cross) is the elevated location where the Convento della Croce is situated, offering strategic views and a prominent presence overlooking Scicli. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Convento della Croce offers a unique blend of history and stunning views that can engage older children. The climb up and exploration of the ancient ruins can be an adventure. Reddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for navigating the uneven terrain. Reddit The museum exhibits, while perhaps not extensive, can spark curiosity about local history. Reddit

Be mindful of the hilltop location and the potential for steep paths. Reddit Visiting during daylight hours is crucial for safety, especially if children are part of your group. Reddit The expansive views might also captivate younger imaginations, offering a sense of scale and wonder. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Convento della Croce is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers, as the primary draw is the incredible scenery and historical exploration, which often comes with minimal or no entrance fees. Reddit The main costs would be transportation to Scicli and potentially local transport to the site. Reddit Packing your own food and drinks can further reduce expenses. Reddit

Walking up to the Convento via the footpaths is a free and rewarding way to experience the surroundings. Reddit The opportunity to witness breathtaking views and explore ancient ruins without a significant financial outlay makes it a highly attractive destination. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

For photographers, Convento della Croce is a dream destination. The panoramic vistas of Scicli, especially during the golden hour and sunset, offer unparalleled opportunities for landscape and architectural shots. Instagram+1 The ancient convent ruins provide a compelling historical element to frame against the scenic backdrop. Instagram Night photography enthusiasts will also find the illuminated town below captivating. Reddit

Art lovers will appreciate the historical significance of the site and its architectural elements. Instagram The integration of the Convento into the broader archaeological park of Kamarina and Ispica adds cultural depth. Instagram The museum's collection of ancient artifacts offers a glimpse into the region's artistic and historical heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Convento della Croce

The Convento della Croce, perched atop the Colle della Croce, is a historically significant site in Scicli. Founded by Franciscan friars, its origins trace back to AD 1225, making it one of the oldest complexes in the area. Instagram The site comprises the remains of the convent itself and a church, offering visitors a tangible connection to centuries of history. The architecture reflects 16th-century styles, adding to its charm. Instagram

Beyond its historical structures, the Convento della Croce is renowned for its spectacular panoramic views over the town of Scicli and the surrounding countryside, extending towards the sea. InstagramReddit This vantage point makes it an ideal spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram The site also hosts a small museum featuring ancient artifacts unearthed from local archaeological parks, providing further insight into the region's past. Reddit

Visitors often describe the experience as profoundly beautiful and peaceful. Reddit While navigating to the site can sometimes be a challenge, with Google Maps not always being precise, Reddit the effort is rewarded by the stunning scenery and the historical ambiance. Reddit The friendly staff are noted for their helpfulness, guiding visitors through the site and its museum. Reddit

The Views and Photography Opportunities

The most celebrated aspect of Convento della Croce is undoubtedly its breathtaking panoramic views. InstagramReddit From its elevated position, visitors can gaze out over the entire town of Scicli, with its characteristic Baroque architecture, and the rolling hills that define the Sicilian landscape. Instagram The vista extends to the distant sea, offering a sweeping and unforgettable panorama. Reddit

These views are particularly magical during the late afternoon and sunset, when the light casts a warm, golden glow over the town and countryside. Instagram This makes it a prime location for photographers seeking to capture the essence of Scicli. Instagram+1 Evenings also offer a different kind of beauty, with the city lights twinkling below, creating an 'amazing night view'. Reddit The ancient ruins of the convent itself provide a dramatic foreground for these expansive backdrops, adding layers of historical context to the visual experience. Instagram

To make the most of photography here, it's recommended to visit with ample daylight, Reddit especially if you plan to walk down from the site. Reddit A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunset or for capturing the night views. InstagramReddit

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