Sicilian experiences and the metaphysics of the Andromeda Theater

Those who have never visited these places cannot help but be surprised and pleasantly amazed when from the provincial road that goes inland from Agrigento one is almost suddenly confronted with a unique spectacle. In the middle of the Platani River valley and amid the rugged and wild vegetation stands a cluster of small houses that overhang the hillside: this is the quaint village of Sant’Angelo Muxaro. From the main square, people can take part in a variety of excursions ranging from caving tours, to walks along country paths, to off-road drives, to tastings of typical products such as fresh ricotta cheese and homemade bread, and concluding with visits to traditional workshops such as those of straw weavers or farriers. Deserving a separate mention is the striking Andromeda Theater in Santo Stefano di Quisquina: where the Sicani Mountains go to rise up to meet the sky to catch the stars. The Theater is made of stone placed on top of stone, with a ceiling of pure nothing, along a walkway where there are sculptures and statues (beautiful one of fallen Icarus). One hundred and eight cubes scattered in front of the circle-shaped proscenium-a hundred and eight places to sit-correspond to the lights of the Galaxy.