Last Updated on 4 August 2024
What to see in Sciacca
The Port of Sciacca
Sciacca is a fishing town, and its harbor is a window into local marine life. Here you can admire the fishing boats and enjoy fresh fish in the restaurants along the pier. The sea breeze and authentic atmosphere will make this an unforgettable visit.
Moon Castle
The Castello dei Luna is a testimony to the ancient history of Sciacca. Built by the Normans in the 13th century, the castle dominates the historic city center and offers spectacular panoramic views. As you explore this castle, you will see ancient walls, towers and secret passages and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
The Historic Center and Scandaliato Square
Scandaliato Square is the beating heart of Sciacca’s historic center. Surrounded by churches, old buildings, stores, cafes and restaurants, it is a perfect place for a relaxing stroll.
The Church of St. Margaret
The Church of St. Margaret has an ancient history rooted in the Middle Ages. Its architecture reflects the influence of several styles, including Gothic and Baroque, making it an interesting mix of architectural elements. One of the most distinctive features of St. Margaret’s Church is its Gothic facade. The facade is decorated with carved details depicting religious scenes and Christian symbols. Inside, the church is adorned with Baroque stucco and frescoes, which add an artistic dimension to its sacred atmosphere.
The Loader Caves
The Loader Caves date back to prehistoric times. During antiquity, these caves were exploited as quarries for the extraction of limestone material, which was used to construct buildings, walls, and roads nearby.
Later, during the medieval period, caves were often used as shelters by locals to protect themselves from invasion and conflict. Their underground location and complex network of passages made the Caricatore Caves a safe place for the population.
The stoves of San Calogero
These natural stoves are a testament to the island’s rich historical and cultural heritage and offer guests a unique experience in which you can feel the breath of the earth. Inside these caves, water vapors with a temperature of about 40 degrees Celsius escape from the bowels of the earth.
The St. Calogero Stoves have a history rooted in antiquity. They are named after St. Calogero, a hermit saint who, according to tradition, lived in a cave near the stoves in the 5th century AD. This place soon became a center of pilgrimage and healing, as these caves were believed to be miraculous for alleviating a range of illnesses and physical ailments.
Very knowledgeable volunteers will give you a tour of 2 caves. One that was used for animal care and one for people care.
Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon. It is recommended to call first: +39092528989
The Enchanted Castle
Another fascinating attraction to explore in Sciacca is undoubtedly the Enchanted Castle, located a few kilometers from the heart of the city. The uniqueness of this place (which is actually not a castle but a park) lies in its enigmatic and unique atmosphere, making it a popular stop for visitors of all ages. Inside the Enchanted Castle, sculptor Filippo Bentivegna, also known as Filippo Testi, has created a series of extraordinary paintings, depicting an extraordinary fusion of skyscrapers and fish, resulting in bizarre art.
In the surrounding garden, nestled among olive and almond trees, you will find more than 3,000 sculptures of heads carved by Bentivegna himself, worked on tree trunks and rocks. In addition, at the top of the complex, a network of tunnels with different sizes and depths intertwine, creating a fascinating labyrinth that makes the whole experience even more extraordinary and unique.
