Fragalà monastery

This abbey was built by Grand Conte Ruggero in 1090 after the expulsion of the Arabs from Sicily, although the existence of this site is known in a pre-existing Byzantine monastery. The complex was of enormous importance for the entire Valdemone over a period of time spanning the centuries from the late Middle Ages to the unification of Italy, the period in which the monastery was closed. Over the centuries this place boasted the stay of saints such as Lorenzo from Frazzano, Silvestro da Troina and Cono da Naso. The Basilian monastery also hosted numerous and important relics of Christianity for various periods to protect them from looting and destruction, as well as a valuable library, now destroyed. The complex, located on an eminent slope overlooking the Fitalia valley, is dominated by the church, inside which there are prestigious medieval frescoes and a courtyard closed by monastic houses.