Marineo
# Marineo

Marineo (Sicilian: Marineu) is a comune (municipality) in the Metropolitan City of Palermo in the Italian region Sicily, located about 20 kilometres (12 mi) south of Palermo. As of 31 December 2004, it had a population of 6,885 and an area of 33.3 square kilometres (12.9 sq mi).

## Geography

Marineo borders the following municipalities: Bolognetta, Cefalà Diana, Godrano, Mezzojuso, Misilmeri, Monreale, Santa Cristina Gela and Villafrati.

## Main sights

The town of Marineo lies in the Eleuterio river valley, at the foot of a rock, just outside the Ficuzza wood. The 17th century Mother church of San Ciro (featuring an outstanding shrine containing the remains of the patron saint), the Madonna Dajna Sanctuary (1583) and the remains of the Castle. The Archeological Museum contains findings from the Eleuterio valley. Going further down the Scanzano valley, and move along the edge of the Cappelliere wood and the shore of the Scanzano artificial lake, all the way to the natural ramparts of Rocca Busambra, rising out of a vast oak wood.

## Culture

Major events include the Dimostranza di San Ciro, a folk pantomime taking place every four years in August, and the Cunnutta, a parade of pious people on horseback to celebrate the patron saint. In September, an important international poetry contest takes place.

