Discover the Royal Hunting Lodge of Ficuzza, a hidden gem near Palermo where Sicilian history and nature blend seamlessly, offering a unique glimpse into the opulent world of the Bourbon monarchy.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARCO CRUPI

Nestled in the lush landscape of the Ficuzza Wood, the Royal Hunting Lodge of Ficuzza (Real Casina di Caccia) is a stunning blend of nature and history that showcases the opulence of the Bourbon era. Located about 45 kilometers from Palermo and near the town of Corleone, this royal retreat once served as a lavish escape for King Ferdinand III of Sicily, blending neoclassical and Sicilian Baroque styles with its beautiful natural surroundings​.

Commissioned in 1799 by King Ferdinand III during his exile in Sicily, the lodge was initially designed by architect Carlo Chenchi and later completed by Giuseppe Venanzio Marvuglia between 1802 and 1807. The palace’s rectangular façade features intricate sculptures of Pan and Diana, symbolizing the untamed wilderness of the surrounding forest. Inside, the interiors once boasted grand salons, a private chapel, and extensive stables, reflecting the luxury and self-sufficiency expected of a royal estate​.

Despite the looting and damage during the Sicilian uprisings of 1820-21, many original decorative elements, such as the grand staircase and handcrafted motifs, have survived, offering a glimpse into the regal past of the palace. A particularly intriguing feature is the ancient bidet that the queen brought from Caserta, which she used outdoors—an unusual habit that has become a quirky part of the palace’s history​.

Today, the Royal Hunting Lodge of Ficuzza is not only a museum but also a part of the Bosco della Ficuzza Nature Reserve, a protected area teeming with diverse flora and fauna. The reserve is home to over a thousand plant species and various wildlife, including birds of prey that are rehabilitated at the on-site wildlife recovery center-the only one of its kind in Sicily. Visitors can explore the rich natural environment, discover ancient hunting paths, and see features like the “King’s Throne,” a rock formation believed to have been used by King Ferdinand for hunting​.

After falling into neglect, the lodge and its grounds were revitalized and opened to the public in 2009. Today, it functions as a cultural and tourist hub managed by the Sicilian Forestry Department. The “Multimedia Museum of the Ficuzza Forest” offers interactive exhibits that connect visitors with the history of the Bourbon family and the unique biodiversity of the reserve. The lodge is a perfect day trip destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking to experience a lesser-known side of Sicily​.

Whether exploring the regal past of the Bourbon monarchy or wandering through the verdant woods of Ficuzza, the Royal Hunting Lodge provides an immersive journey into the heart of Sicilian heritage.