Origins of the Sicilian Cannolo
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The origins of the Sicilian cannoli date back to the Arab domination in Sicily. One of the most accredited hypotheses suggests that the birth of cannoli took place in Caltanissetta.
During the Arab domination in Sicily (from 827 to 1091), the city of Caltanissetta was fortified and became the seat of Saracen power. The term "Caltanissetta" is a phrase that in Arabic means "Castle of the women": the city at that time became the seat of numerous harems of Saracen emirs.
The most accredited hypothesis regarding the birth of the Sicilian cannoli would be that favorite of the emir, to pass the time, they devoted themselves to the preparation of delicious dishes and in particular of sweets. On the occasion of one of the many culinary experiments they would have created the cannoli, with an obvious allusion to the "talents" of the sultan.
