The name of the town (meaning "Living Water" in Italian) is derived from the numerous natural springs in the area.

The economy is based on agriculture: the production of wheat, olives, almonds, and pistachios are important.

Also, cattle and horse breeding, along with sheep farms provide income.

Sights include the Torre dell'Orologio (clock tower) which was built in 1894, and the 17th century Chiesa Madre (Mother Church), dedicated to Santa Maria della Luce.

Salvatore Quasimodo, who spent part of his childhood at Acquaviva Platani,[5] writes about the town in his poem "Che vuoi pastore d'aria?