The fortress of Cefalù

The Fortress of Cefalù is the ideal stop for those who want to immerse into the nature and history of the enchanting town.
It seems to have been the massive 268-metre-high cliff that gave the town its name, namely ‘Kephaloidion’, derived in turn from ‘Kefalis’, which in Greek means head and recalls both the shape of the cliff and its position.


Moreover, the rock is linked to the myth of Daphnis, a demigod shepherd, who decided to commit suicide by jumping off a cliff.
Moved by pity, his father, the god Hermes, decided to transform him into the great cliff, so that his soul would remain eternally alive in it.
High crenellated walls dating back to the Middle Ages contain a nature trail that will accompany you all the way up to the summit.
Along the way you can admire important ancient finds: the Temple of Diana (9th century B.C.) and the remains of Cefalù Castle (around 13th century A.D.).


After a 2-hour walk, on reaching the summit, you can admire the magnificent panorama that repays all the effort expended.
It is not recommended to attempt the walk in the middle of the summer hours, as it is almost entirely exposed to the sun.


The site is accessible all year round at the following times:
-April to October: from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
-November to March: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.