The itinerary of water in the shaped landscape

The Branciforti Ecomuseum, housed in a former water pumping station, is designed as an interpretation centre regarding the environmental and cultural history of Leonforte and the surrounding area. Located near the monumental Granfonte fountain and the Giardino delle Ninfe, the ecomuseum has developed the Teatro delle Acque project through two experiential educational workshops: the water workshop and the ceramics workshop. Starting from the Visitor Centre, visitors can explore three urban itineraries on foot or by e-bike: the monumental route highlights the town’s main historical and artistic landmarks. the Vie del Principe winds through the Branciforti sites. A visit to the geo-sites, including the Leonforte formation, the Nicoletti dam, the remnants of the primordial Pangea (Triassic basalt sill) in the Vignale district, Mount Altesina and the Crisa-Dittaino River.

Lake Ogliastro is located on the border between the provinces of Enna and Catania, primarily within the municipality of Aidone and partially within that of Ramacca. Created for irrigation purposes and as a water reserve, it was built between 1963 and 1972 by constructing a compacted earth dam on the Gornalunga River. Over time, the lake has undergone an interesting process of ecological succession, becoming an important habitat for numerous species of resident and migratory birds.

Located between Villarosa and Enna, Lake Morello is an artificial basin created between 1968 and 1973 by an earth embankment on the Morello River, in the province of Enna. Originally built for industrial purposes, it supplied water for the flotation process at the Pasquasia mine. The dam was constructed using specially treated local materials. The creation of the lake led to the disappearance of part of the Sikelia mining railway, which largely ran through the reservoir area. Now that its industrial use has ended, the lake’s waters are used for irrigation.

This artificial lake was created in the 1970s following the construction of the eponymous dam on the Dittaino River. It is surrounded by lush vegetation, fields cultivated with wheat and broad beans, tree crops such as olive, almond, orange and peach trees, as well as pastures. The lake serves as a seasonal habitat for numerous migratory birds that stop in its waters at certain times of the year. It also offers opportunities for recreational fishing and water sports, thanks to its well-equipped facilities.

Built in the mid-1980s, this artificial lake on the Olivo River was created to enhance water resources for irrigation. Its construction was made possible by the stream’s morphology and by poorly permeable soil, such as the marly clays of Geracello. The basin has an irregular shape, resembling a hand reaching into the mountains. However, due to low rainfall, it rarely exceeds two-thirds of its maximum capacity. The clay-rich soil along the banks creates ideal conditions for a wide variety of vegetation, including aquatic and semi-aquatic species.

Lake Pergusa is located within a sub-elliptical basin, surrounded by the Erei Mountains. It is the only endorheic lake in Sicily, with no tributaries or outlets, and it has a tectonic origin. This important wetland in the heart of the island is a key stopover point for migratory birds and is home to a wide variety of bird species. Under specific light and temperature conditions, a unique phenomenon causes the water to turn red due to the action of certain microorganisms. This effect, caused by the development of sulphur bacteria, also acts as a natural self-purification mechanism. A deeply evocative and inspiring place, it has been mentioned by ancient authors such as Ovid, Cicero, Livy and Diodorus Siculus. According to myth, it was here that Pluto kidnapped Proserpina, daughter of Ceres, the goddess of fertility. Her mourning was so profound that the fields ceased to flourish. Only thanks to Jupiter’s intervention were mother and daughter allowed to be reunited for part of the year. Since then, Proserpina’s absence has marked the arrival of autumn and winter, while her return heralds the coming of spring and summer.