Elevation
Population
Real Population (5km)
Air Quality Rating
Region
Walkability
Housing availability
Avg Download Speed (Mbps) / Avg Upload Speed (Mbps)
Climate Description
Piazza Armerina
Sicilia
Historically rich town with UNESCO mosaics, notable architecture, tourism-driven economy, and walkable lifestyle.
Quality of Life Score
74
Quality of Infrastructure
64
Quality of Economy
75
Summary
Piazza Armerina, situated in the heart of Sicily, is a historically rich town popular among foreign expats and retirees. Renowned for the Villa del Casale, an UNESCO World Heritage site, it is famed for its exquisite Roman mosaics, attracting history enthusiasts. The town’s architecture boasts a striking 13th-century cathedral and the ornate 18th-century Palazzo di Città, reflecting Sicily’s diverse cultural heritage. The local economy benefits from tourism, particularly through nearby Caltagirone, known for its traditional ceramics.
While Piazza Armerina offers a high walkability score and a relaxed lifestyle, expats may find the healthcare system less comprehensive compared to larger urban areas. Additionally, the nearest beach is a drive away, which may require adjustments for those seeking coastal living. Nonetheless, the rich local traditions and vibrant community life provide a welcoming atmosphere for new residents seeking tranquility and culture in their retirement.
✅ Pros
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore and enjoy.
– Beautiful Sicilian climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Integration opportunities with friendly local community and expats.
– Adequate healthcare facilities available for residents’ needs.
– Reasonable transportation options for local and regional travel.
– Moderate levels of tourism enhance local economy and charm.
– Scenic landscapes and proximity to stunning natural attractions.
– Air quality is generally good, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger Italian cities.
– Opportunities for engaging in local traditions and festivals.
❌ Cons
– Healthcare quality may not meet higher expectations of expats.
– Limited availability of specialized medical services can be frustrating.
– Internet connectivity can be unreliable at times, hindering work.
– Unemployment rate slightly above national average may cause concern.
– Transportation options may be limited for distant travel needs.
– Limited educational facilities may not suit families with children.
– Cultural events may not be as frequent as desired.
– Local economy can be affected by seasonal tourist fluctuations.
– Accessibility to larger cities is not as convenient as expected.
– Cost of living may still strain budgets for some retirees.
Piazza Armerina Demographics
Population
20600
Real Population (5km band)
63600
Births Per 100 Deaths
60.0
Population Data Source
ISTAT,2023
Estimated Unemployment Rate
Touristy Index
Some Tourism
Income per capita (2023)
18600
Income rank in Italy (2023)
5057 out of 7901
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Closest Airport
Name
Catania Fontanarossa (Catania)
Connectivity Score
7
Driving Time
65min(s)
Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) is situated in Sicily, Italy, and serves as a significant air travel hub in the Mediterranean. This airport facilitates connections to numerous European cities such as Rome, Munich, Amsterdam, and London, with key routes including Catania to Rome, one of Italy’s busiest. Notably, it accommodates low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air, making it accessible for budget travellers and providing direct flights to leisure destinations. Recent terminal expansions enhance passenger experience, although the airport experienced a temporary disruption in July 2023 due to a fire in the terminal.
2nd Closest Airport
Name
Falcone Borsellino (Palermo)
Connectivity Score
9
Driving Time
104min(s)
Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) is located in Cinisi, about 35 km northwest of Palermo, the capital of Sicily, Italy. It is the second largest airport on the island, handling over 8 million passengers annually. The airport primarily serves destinations across Europe and offers seasonal flights to New York City. Notable airlines include Aeroitalia, Ryanair, and Volotea, indicating a strong focus on budget-friendly travel options.
3rd Closest Airport
Name
Birgi (Trapani)
Connectivity Score
5
Driving Time
135min(s)
Trapani-Birgi Airport (Vincenzo Florio Airport) is situated between Trapani and Marsala, on the western coast of Sicily. It primarily serves as a low-cost hub with connections to various European destinations, including major cities such as Rome, Venice, and Naples. The airport is a key point for travellers heading to and from Sicily, offering both regular and seasonal routes mainly through Ryanair, with destinations including London, Manchester, and Milan, amongst others.
Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Enna
Connectivity Score
5
Driving Time
32min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Enna consists primarily of regional trains operated by Trenitalia. Key rail lines that stop here include those connecting Enna to major cities in Sicily. Direct train services include connections to Palemo, Cefalù, Agrigento Centrale, and Siracusa. Departures are typically limited, with services to Palermo available multiple times daily, but other routes like Agrigento and Siracusa generally have fewer trains running per day, averaging around five per day. The travel times can vary significantly, with the quickest trains reaching Palermo in approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes. The station does not offer high-speed train services and primarily focuses on regional and intercity trains, providing a mix of fast and slower services. Overall, the frequency of departures ranges from hourly to a few per day depending on the destination, ensuring connectivity within the region but lesser options for some routes.
2nd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Villarosa
Connectivity Score
6
Driving Time
32min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Villarosa provides a variety of regional links primarily operated by Trenitalia. The key destinations connected by direct trains include:
– **Palermo Centrale**: approximately 1 hour 44 minutes, with 11 services daily.
– **Caltanissetta Xirbi**: around 11 minutes, with 13 services daily.
– **Catania**: roughly 1 hour 37 minutes, with 16 services daily.
– **Cefalu**: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, with 11 services daily.
– **Enna**: about 10 minutes, with 8 services daily.
The frequency of departures varies, with most routes operating multiple times throughout the day, ensuring reasonable connectivity.
Stazione di Villarosa does not host high-speed trains but focuses on regional services, making it a critical stop for local travel within Sicily.
3rd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Leonforte Pirato
Connectivity Score
6
Driving Time
36min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Leonforte Pirato includes several relevant details:
– **Rail lines that stop here**: Trenitalia and Italo.
– **Key destinations connected by direct trains**: The station offers direct services to Palermo Centrale, Acireale, Agrigento, Agrigento Centrale, Bologna, and Caltanissetta Centrale.
– **Train operators**: The primary operators are Trenitalia and Italo.
– **Frequency of departures**: There are frequent services, including 9 trains per day to Palermo Centrale, 6 trains per day to Acireale, 8 trains per day to Agrigento, 10 trains per day to Agrigento Centrale, and 10 trains per day to Caltanissetta Centrale, with the first train departing around 5:18 AM and the last around 10:29 PM for Palermo and similar timing for other destinations.
– **Types of trains**: The services include both high-speed and regional trains, providing a mix of travel options to various destinations.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Within 10km
Auto Repair Shops
16
Bars
17
Cafes
5
Cinemas
1
Dentists
8
Golf Courses
0
Gyms
11
Health Clinics
3
Hiking Trails
27
Historical Sites
109
Libraries
1
Museums
13
Parks
8
Pharmacies
5
Restaurants
47
Shopping Centres
9
Supermarkets
10
Spas
15
Beach
Name
Lido Conchiglia
Driving Distance
43mins
Water Quality Rating
1 - Excellent
Mountain Resort
Name
Etna Sud - Nicolosi
Driving Distance
91mins
Healthcare
Healthcare Score
12
Nearest Hospital Name
Michele Chiello-Pronto Soccors
Drive Time to Nearest Hospital
5 minutes
Hospitals and Clinics Within 10km
2
Local Public Healthcare Provider
ASP ENNA
Healthcare Quality Description
In this area of Sicily, the local healthcare system presents a mixed picture of efficiency and quality. It shows moderate overall performance when compared nationally, but the quality of hospital care is relatively limited. Post-operative care is particularly efficient, with brief hospital stays being common, and there is high efficiency in managing heart failure readmissions. However, the speed in treating severe heart attacks is lacking. Emergency orthopaedic care and the management of heart attack readmissions perform moderately well. Conversely, breast cancer surgeries with minimally invasive approaches are less prevalent. Overall, healthcare provision demonstrates variation in both strengths and weaknesses.
Safety
Seismic Zone (risk of earthquakes)
Moderate Earthquake Risk
Road Accidents Rate per 10k Inhabitants
28
Percentage of Population at Landslide Risk
4
Percentage of Population at Flood Risk
0
Car Insurance Price Index
80.99
Housing & Property Market
Housing availability
High
Property Prices per m²
First Quartile
356
Median
514
Third Quartile
793
Connectivity & Digital Access
Walkability Description
Walker's Paradise
Avg Download Speed (Mbps)
120
Fast Download Speed (Mbps)
164
Slow Download Speed (Mbps)
65
Education
Avg Schools Ranking (All Criteria)
Bottom 50%
Avg Schools Ranking (Standardised Tests)
Top 40%
Counts of School
Town/City | Primary Schools | Kindergartens | Comprehensive Schools | Medium High Schools | Scientific High Schools | Technical Commercial Schools | Classical High Schools | Industrial Technical Schools | Higher Education Institutes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Piazza Armerina | 7 | 8 | 2 | 2 | N/A | N/A | 1 | 2 | 2 |
Climate & Weather
Precipitation
Very Low (Bottom 10%)
Sunshine
Very High (81st-90th percentile)
Snowfall
Low (11th-20th percentile)
Min Annual Temperature (°C)
2.3
Max Annual Temperature (°C)
30.6
Climate Description
Piazza Armerina, nestled in Italy, offers a climate that balances warmth with moderate seasonal variations. Summers here are comfortably warm, without the peak temperatures seen in Italy’s coastal regions. In contrast, winters bring a slight chill but rarely reach severe cold, occasionally dusting the town with light snowfall. Rainfall is evenly spread throughout the year, maintaining the lush landscapes without excessive wet periods. Residents and visitors enjoy ample sunshine, ensuring that outdoor activities and explorations of this historic area are rarely disrupted by gloomy days. All in all, Piazza Armerina's climate contributes to its charm, making it an appealing destination for expats and retirees seeking a stable and inviting environment.
Annual Temperature Chart (Min)
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Town | Min Temp Jan | Min Temp Feb | Min Temp Mar | Min Temp Apr | Min Temp May | Min Temp Jun | Min Temp Jul | Min Temp Aug | Min Temp Sep | Min Temp Oct | Min Temp Nov | Min Temp Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Piazza Armerina | 2,30 | 2,60 | 4,10 | 7,10 | 10,00 | 14,60 | 17,70 | 18,00 | 14,90 | 11,80 | 8,00 | 3,80 |
Annual Temperature Chart (Max)
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Town | Max Temp Jan | Max Temp Feb | Max Temp Mar | Max Temp Apr | Max Temp May | Max Temp Jun | Max Temp Jul | Max Temp Aug | Max Temp Sep | Max Temp Oct | Max Temp Nov | Max Temp Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Piazza Armerina | 10,2 | 10,70 | 13,70 | 17,40 | 21,50 | 27,20 | 30,60 | 30,30 | 25,10 | 20,60 | 15,10 | 11,50 |
Sunny Days By Month
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Town | Sunny Days % Jan | Sunny Days % Feb | Sunny Days % Mar | Sunny Days % Apr | Sunny Days % May | Sunny Days % Jun | Sunny Days % Jul | Sunny Days % Aug | Sunny Days % Sep | Sunny Days % Oct | Sunny Days % Nov | Sunny Days % Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Piazza Armerina | 49 | 40 | 52 | 58 | 65 | 75 | 83 | 78 | 59 | 46 | 38 | 50 |
Environmental & Air Quality
Classifications
PM10
Good
PM2.5
Good
NO2
Good
SO2
Good
O₃
Fair
Air Quality Rating
84
Air Quality Description
Piazza Armerina, a favored destination for those seeking refuge amid Italy’s vibrant landscapes, offers an invigorating air quality that stands out even in a country noted for its bucolic environments. The quiet air carries minimum particulate matter, maintaining robust standards in cleanliness with low levels of nitrogen and sulphur dioxide – often linked to industrial activities – that are impressively well-managed here. However, the town presents a higher presence of ozone, yet it remains within acceptable parameters for healthy outdoor activities and leisure. The town’s atmosphere contributes positively to the everyday quality of life, complementing its rich historical and cultural allure.
Piazza Armerina, a favored destination for those seeking refuge amid Italy’s vibrant landscapes, offers an invigorating air quality that stands out even in a country noted for its bucolic environments. The quiet air carries minimum particulate matter, maintaining robust standards in cleanliness with low levels of nitrogen and sulphur dioxide – often linked to industrial activities – that are impressively well-managed here. However, the town presents a higher presence of ozone, yet it remains within acceptable parameters for healthy outdoor activities and leisure. The town’s atmosphere contributes positively to the everyday quality of life, complementing its rich historical and cultural allure.
Town Descriptions
Getting There
Piazza Armerina is accessible via the SS117 and SS191 roads, connecting it to Catania and Palermo. The nearest airports, Catania Fontanarossa and Falcone Borsellino, are within reasonable distance. Train stations nearby offer moderate connectivity, reflecting mixed infrastructure ratings.
Getting Around
Local Cuisine
Piazza Armerina, located in the heart of Sicily, boasts a rich culinary scene deeply rooted in local traditions and characterized by a plethora of dining options. The town is renowned for its traditional Sicilian dishes, which include pasta with sardines seasoned with saffron, fried aubergines served in pasta alla Norma, and caponata—a sweet and sour eggplant stew. Noteworthy local specialties also encompass arancini, or fried rice balls, and distinctive desserts such as cannoli and cassata made with local ricotta cheese. Additionally, the seafood offerings are exceptional, featuring fresh catches from the surrounding waters like tuna and swordfish.
The dining landscape in Piazza Armerina is diverse, encompassing a mix of both local and international influences. While traditional Sicilian eateries dominate, there is a notable presence of international cuisine, spanning a range of options from Japanese and Mediterranean to Indian and Chinese. This variety ensures that both residents and visitors can explore a broad spectrum of flavors beyond the Sicilian palate.
In terms of fine dining, Piazza Armerina is home to at least one Michelin-starred restaurant, Al Fogher, which is recognized for its innovative use of local ingredients and rustic charm. The presence of this establishment signals a commitment to quality and creativity within the local culinary offerings.
Shopping Overview
The shopping landscape features various categories catering to diverse needs. Supermarkets and department stores provide essential goods, while boutiques offer fashion and unique items. Gift and specialty shops, alongside art galleries, enhance the shopping experience with personalised and artisan products. Additionally, larger retail centres may host an assortment of brands and shops. Outdoor markets periodically provide local produce and crafts, contributing to a vibrant, community-oriented shopping culture.
Neighborhoods
Green Areas and Parks
Piazza Armerina offers various outdoor opportunities with several trails accessible for hiking and biking. Notably, the Cammino di San Giacomo in Sicily’s Segment 3 spans 15.3 miles, requiring an estimated time of six and a half hours to complete. Additionally, the Monte Campana Bannata and Cozzo Bannata Restivo trails provide challenging terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails offer visitors the chance to explore the region’s natural landscapes through hand-curated routes that are well-reviewed by users. These activities cater to those interested in maintaining an active lifestyle surrounded by nature.
✅ Pros
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore and enjoy.
– Beautiful Sicilian climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Integration opportunities with friendly local community and expats.
– Adequate healthcare facilities available for residents’ needs.
– Reasonable transportation options for local and regional travel.
– Moderate levels of tourism enhance local economy and charm.
– Scenic landscapes and proximity to stunning natural attractions.
– Air quality is generally good, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger Italian cities.
– Opportunities for engaging in local traditions and festivals.
❌ Cons
– Healthcare quality may not meet higher expectations of expats.
– Limited availability of specialized medical services can be frustrating.
– Internet connectivity can be unreliable at times, hindering work.
– Unemployment rate slightly above national average may cause concern.
– Transportation options may be limited for distant travel needs.
– Limited educational facilities may not suit families with children.
– Cultural events may not be as frequent as desired.
– Local economy can be affected by seasonal tourist fluctuations.
– Accessibility to larger cities is not as convenient as expected.
– Cost of living may still strain budgets for some retirees.
FAQs
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