Wedding at Castello Xirumi – Erik & Gessica’s Real Wedding Among Citrus Groves, History and Sicilian Magic
- Walter Lo Cascio
- Apr 9
- 8 min read
There are weddings that are more than events — they become experiences that stay in your heart. Erik and Gessica’s wedding at Castello Xirumi Serravalle was exactly that: a perfect blend of emotions, family, Sicily and authentic beauty.
They are a couple who live and work in Bergamo, but chose to return to Gessica’s homeland to celebrate their love, accompanied by their little boy — a sweet presence that made every moment even more genuine.
And the setting? One of the most iconic places in Eastern Sicily: Castello Xirumi, a historic estate surrounded by endless citrus groves, with a view of Mount Etna and an atmosphere that feels straight out of a film.
Castello Xirumi: one of the most enchanting wedding venues in Sicily
Castello Xirumi Serravalle, dating back to the 13th century, is a historic residence transformed into a private estate where every space tells a story. Once home to ancient mills, warehouses and cellars, today its rooms are elegant environments enriched with contemporary design and details that speak of tradition, nature and warm Sicilian hospitality.
The large central courtyard is the heart of the estate: a scenic open-air space that connects the indoor rooms with the gardens and terraces, creating a seamless flow between inside and outside. Here, guests are welcomed by warm lights, Mediterranean greenery and an atmosphere that invites exploration.
And then, the citrus groves: a fragrant sea of orange and lemon trees, with Mount Etna rising in the background. It is one of the most iconic locations for couple portraits — a symbol of Sicily at its most authentic and romantic.
Erik’s Getting Ready: family emotions
Erik began his day in one of the castle’s rooms, surrounded by the most important people in his life: his mother, father, sister and his best man. After the first moments indoors, we stepped out into the castle garden, where the light filtered through the trees, creating the perfect atmosphere.
Every gesture — adjusting his jacket, fastening his cufflinks, exchanging a knowing look with his father — reflected the emotion of a man about to live one of the most meaningful days of his life.
Castello Xirumi, with its open spaces and natural light, made these moments even more intense and authentic.
Gessica’s Getting Ready: cinematic light and infinite sweetness
Gessica got ready in the barons’ house, a bright room where the light poured in through the window like on a movie set. Beside her, always, their little boy — curious, affectionate, and completely attached to his mother every single moment.
Between a touch of lipstick and a gentle caress, Gessica dressed her son, creating one of the sweetest moments of the entire day. A deep, visceral bond that you could feel in every glance.
When the bride’s father walked into the room and saw her in her wedding dress, the silence spoke louder than a thousand words. A pure, simple emotion — and I had the privilege of telling it through images.
The ceremony under the ancient tree
The civil ceremony took place beneath the great centuries‑old tree of Castello Xirumi, one of the estate’s most iconic spots. A close friend officiated, making the moment even more personal and authentic.
The readings shared by their friends told their story: how they met, what binds them, what makes them unique. Their little boy, often in his parents’ arms, turned the ceremony into a moment of family, truth and pure love.
The exchange of rings, the sand ritual, the petal toss — every gesture felt like a fragment of poetry, wrapped in the warm light of the Sicilian afternoon.
The couple’s photoshoot among citrus groves and gardens
After the ceremony, we took 45 minutes for a short photoshoot in the castle gardens. Among the citrus groves — with the scent of oranges in the air and Mount Etna rising in the distance — Erik and Gessica let themselves enjoy spontaneous moments, smiles, embraces and slow walks.
The afternoon light did the rest: warm, soft, and perfect for capturing Sicily in all its beauty.
The reception and the celebration
The appetizer buffet took place in the castle’s inner courtyard, surrounded by warm lights, music and lively conversations. The catering by Accademia del Monsù brought the best of Sicilian cuisine to the table: aromas, colors, authentic flavors.
Dinner then moved into the castle’s grand hall, where toasts, laughter and dancing turned the evening into a true celebration. The parents’ dance, the friends’ embraces, the shared emotions — every moment felt like a fragment of life.
The cake cutting returned to the courtyard, under the lights and the evening sky. Then the DJ set ignited the night: the couple and their friends danced late into the evening, and we were there, capturing every instant.
Conclusion
Erik and Gessica’s wedding at Castello Xirumi was a perfect blend of emotions, family, Sicily and beauty. A day that will remain in everyone’s hearts — and one I had the privilege of telling through my images.
Every image is a fragment of light, a breath, an emotion lived among the citrus groves and ancient walls of Castello Xirumi. This is where the visual story of an unforgettable day begins.
These images are only a small part of the beauty lived that day. The rest lives in the glances, the words and the memories of those who shared this wonderful celebration of love.
If these images moved you and you’d like to discover how I could tell the story of your wedding, click on CONTACT ME. I’ll be happy to guide you.
FAQ CASTELLO XIRUMI
1. Where is Castello Xirumi located, and why is it so popular for weddings?
Castello Xirumi Serravalle is located between Lentini and Carlentini, in a strategic position close to Catania Airport. It is one of Sicily’s most sought‑after venues because it combines history, nature, endless citrus groves and elegant spaces perfect for weddings of any size.
2. What is the most iconic feature of Castello Xirumi?
The most iconic element is the large centuries‑old tree under which many civil ceremonies take place. It’s a scenic, intimate and atmospheric setting — ideal for an emotional ceremony surrounded by nature.
3. Is Castello Xirumi suitable for destination weddings? Yes. Thanks to its proximity to Catania Airport, its spacious areas and its ability to host large events, Castello Xirumi is perfect for couples arriving from Italy or abroad.
4. What spaces are available for the ceremony and reception? The venue offers: – the central courtyard, ideal for aperitifs and guest welcome – the centuries‑old tree for the ceremony – the citrus groves for photoshoots and intimate moments – the castle’s indoor halls for dinner – terraces and gardens for the cake cutting and party Every area is well‑curated and allows for a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
5. Can the civil ceremony be held directly at Castello Xirumi? Yes. Many couples choose to celebrate their civil ceremony under the centuries‑old tree or in one of the outdoor areas. The atmosphere is evocative and perfect for a personalized rite.
6. What is the atmosphere like at Castello Xirumi? The atmosphere is elegant, natural and authentically Sicilian. Historic architecture blends with contemporary details, while citrus groves, palms and gardens create a romantic and relaxed setting.
7. Does Castello Xirumi offer spaces for the couple’s preparations? Yes. The castle has rooms and dedicated spaces for both bride and groom preparations. Natural light and refined interiors make these areas perfect for photography as well.
8. Can the photoshoot be done inside the estate? Absolutely. The citrus groves, gardens, courtyard and indoor halls offer unique settings for bright, natural and distinctly Sicilian images.
9. How many guests can Castello Xirumi accommodate? The venue can host both intimate weddings and large events, thanks to its variety of indoor and outdoor spaces. It is one of the most versatile locations in Sicily.
10. Is Castello Xirumi suitable for evening weddings? Yes. The venue is especially magical at night: warm lights, illuminated courtyards and romantic atmospheres make it perfect for dinners, dancing and late‑night celebrations.
11. Can the cake cutting be organized outdoors? Yes. Many couples choose the courtyard or gardens for the cake cutting, thanks to the magical atmosphere created by the lights and Mediterranean vegetation.
12. Does Castello Xirumi have in‑house catering? The venue collaborates with high‑level catering services. For Erik and Gessica’s wedding, the catering was provided by Accademia del Monsù, known for high‑quality Sicilian cuisine. Other frequent partners include La Torre Catering and Graziano Catering.
13. Why choose Castello Xirumi for a wedding in Sicily? Because it offers everything a couple could dream of: history, nature, elegance, authenticity, spacious areas, romantic atmosphere and a uniquely Sicilian setting.
14. What is the best time of year to get married at Castello Xirumi? Spring and early autumn are the most popular seasons, thanks to perfect light and mild temperatures. However, the venue is beautiful all year round.
15. Is Castello Xirumi suitable for weddings with children? Yes. The large outdoor areas, gardens and shaded spaces make it ideal for families with children, who can move around safely and freely.
16. Can symbolic ceremonies be organized? Certainly. The castle is perfect for personalized symbolic rites, especially under the centuries‑old tree or in the gardens.
17. Does Castello Xirumi offer parking for guests? Yes, the estate has large, convenient and easily accessible parking areas.
18. Can the spaces be customized with decorations? Yes. The venue adapts beautifully to different styles: elegant, boho, Mediterranean, classic or modern. Every area can be personalized according to the wedding theme.
19. Is Castello Xirumi suitable for international weddings? Yes. Its proximity to the airport, the beauty of its spaces and its capacity to welcome guests from all over the world make it perfect for foreign couples dreaming of a wedding in Sicily.
20. Why is Castello Xirumi so loved by photographers?
Because it offers incredible light, natural scenery, historic architecture and a cinematic atmosphere. Every corner is photogenic and tells a story.
If you’re imagining your wedding at Castello Xirumi and you desire an authentic, luminous and timeless story, you can reach out to me through the CONTACT ME button. It will be a pleasure to hear your story.
Who am I?
My name is Walter Lo Cascio, and for over twenty years I have been telling wedding stories in Sicily with a natural, elegant style — free from forced poses. I believe emotions should be observed, not constructed: this is why I work discreetly, letting light, gestures and spontaneity guide every photograph.
I tell authentic stories, in Sicily and wherever there is a couple who desires a true, luminous and timeless memory.
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