From which region of Italy does the semi-frozen dessert called granita originate?

Granita is a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water and various flavorings. Originally from Sicily, it is available throughout Italy in varying forms. It is related to sorbet and Italian ice; however, in most of Sicily, it has a smoother, more crystalline texture. Although its texture varies from coarse to smooth, it is always different from that of ice cream, which is creamier, and from that of sorbet, which is more compact; this makes granita distinct and unique.

Common and traditional flavoring ingredients include lemon juice, mandarin oranges, jasmine, coffee, almonds, mint, and when in season wild strawberries and black mulberries. Chocolate granitas have a tradition in the city of Catania but are also available in other parts of Sicily. Granita with coffee is very common in the city of Messina, while granita with almonds is popular in the city of Catania. Granita in combination with a warm pastry called 'brioche' is a common breakfast in summer time (the Sicilian 'brioche' is generally flatter and wider than the French version).