About 20 km from the city of Ragusa stands the magnificent Castello di Donnafugata. It was built in the 19th century by Senator of the Kingdom and Baron Corrado Arezzo on the remains of a 13th-century tower. The baron expanded the original structure, transforming it into a true noble residence and one of the most important social centers of the area during the Umbertine era.

The name Donnafugata derives from the Arabic “Ain-jafat”, meaning “Source of health.” However, a popular legend tells the story of a woman imprisoned in the castle who managed to escape. According to the tale, it was Blanche I of Navarre, who was locked in a room by the cruel Bernardo Cabrera, lord of the County of Modica. She is said to have escaped through underground passages leading to the countryside surrounding the palace. From this legend comes the dialect name “Ronnafugata”, meaning “the escaped woman.”

Opening hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 09:00 – 13:00 / 14:30 – 19:00
Closed on Monday