Sciacca Sicily: a hidden gem by the sea

Sciacca Sicily is a town of about 39,000 inhabitants on southern coast of the island. It is located between Marsala and Agrigento.

Although Sciacca has no major attractions, it is full of delightful experiences. It is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the authentic Sicilian way of life.

Sicily is a diverse place. Each town has its own thing going on. You won't find two towns that are the same on the island.

Sciacca is easy to live in. The lack of world-class attractions opens your eyes to the small wonders of everyday life. You can find them in the alleys of the historic center, in the fishing harbor, on the beaches, or just by visiting a local shop.

Sciacca has a healthy dose of West Sicilian directness and artisanal craftsmanship. The city center has many shops, from cafes serving heavenly delicacies to good restaurants and artisan shops specializing in ceramics, woodwork, and other traditional crafts. There's even an Irish pub where you can watch football and have a quality pint of beer.

Sciacca promises the timeless atmosphere of a historic center, delicious seafood, and breathtaking Mediterranean sunsets that paint the sky in a myriad of colors. It also has many unique attractions that should not be missed.

The fishing harbor of Sciacca, seen from the town center.

Sciacca Sicily: A Brief History

Sciacca's history begins in the 400s BC. At that time, it was founded as a spa for the inhabitants of nearby Selinunte.

Sulfurous baths can still be found on the San Calogero mountain behind the town. There used to be a spa in the town center - the Grand Hotel delle Terme - but now it seems to have fallen into disuse. Judging by the appearance, it has been closed for quite some time.

After the destruction of Selinunte in 409 BC, many people fled the horrors of war to Sciacca, which grew significantly in population. Later, the city was fought over by Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans alike. The latter finally conquered it after the first Punic War.

After the Roman conquest of Sciacca, it became an integral part of the Empire. The city attracted people as a port and spa town. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Sciacca also experienced a collapse.

After the Romans, Sicily remained under Byzantine rule. This meant a quiet life for both the island and Sciacca. The mountain behind the city became a place of contemplation for saints who had withdrawn from the world.

Sciacca was revived in the Arab and Norman periods around the 1000s.

Sciacca played an essential role during the Sicilian Vespers rebellion in the 1200s. It was declared a free city at that time. Even later, Sciacca was a center of rebellion, and bloody battles were fought there.

Sciacca also has a long tradition of ceramic work. Many of these artisan shops are still in the city center today, and the craft tradition can be seen in the small details of a stroll around the town.

In modern times, Sciacca has retained its historical charm while embracing contemporary life. The town has become known for its picturesque views, rich cultural heritage, vibrant fishing industry, and local craftsmanship.

The Sciacca is built into the hillside and has many stairs.

Top Attractions in Sciacca Sicily

Castello Incantato - The Enchanted Castle

The Enchanted Castle is not really a castle except in the imagination of its creator. It is a unique artistic creation by the local sculptor Filippo Bentivegna.

This whimsical site is an open-air museum showcasing over 100 sculptures carved into the rock, depicting various figures from mythology, religion, and Sicilian folklore.

Born in Sciacca in the 19th century, Filippo Bentivegna moved to America. However, love and other concerns eventually returned him to his native Sicily.

Filippo returned a changed man. In Sciacca, he bought this house with its large garden and began to raise his 'subjects'—sculptures now on display.

Filippo called himself the king of these people of his own creation. He spent the rest of his life increasing the number of his subjects, whom he carved out of stone.

All this is now displayed in its original location, Filippo's former home, the Enchanted Castle. Thanks to its builder's extraordinary character, the place exudes a magical atmosphere.

The site also has a café and a small museum. You can reach the place from the city center by car, taxi, or local bus in about 15 minutes.

Outsider Art in the Enchanted Castle in Sciacca

The outsider art of Filippo Bentivegna.

The Church of Saint Nicolò the Latin

Sciacca is built on a hillside and can be divided into three parts. At the bottom is the beach and the fishing port; in the middle is the town center; the third level comprises the top of the hill.

The church of Saint Nicolò the Latin is located in the upper part of the town. It is one of the oldest churches preserved from the Middle Ages and the oldest Norman church in Sicily.

There is no point in comparing it with the great Norman churches of the Palermo region. This place is impressive on a whole other level than size alone.

The church has no regular opening hours. It is run by the artist Lucia Stefanetti, who also has a studio in the building. We were standing outside the church when Lucia arrived (perhaps she lives nearby and spotted us, or maybe it was a stroke of good luck).

Lucia gave us a charming church tour and showed us the church's rare relics and her own artworks. Many thanks to her!

Inside the Church of San Nicolo the Latin.

The Old Town

The old town, located on the city's middle level, offers restaurants, cafés, pubs, craft shops, the Duomo, and much more.

The center itself is easily accessible on foot. There are also pedestrian-only streets and alleys and a lot of traffic, especially during the day.

The best way to get to know the place is to wander around freely.

The Fishing Harbor

The fishing port is by the sea, directly below the center. To view the city above, walk to one of the two large breakwaters.

The fishing harbor also sells fish when boats arrive from the sea. There are also restaurants and cafés. The place is particularly popular with older local men. You'll see them all over the town playing cards.

Overall, it is a pleasant place to take a leisurely stroll.

The Beaches in Sciacca

As you walk along the coast West of the fishing port, you will eventually come to the beaches of Sciacca.

The beaches are not gigantic but good places to swim and spend summertime.

There are several places to stay and park your camper or caravan around the beaches and fishing port. A good supermarket, which is not abundant in the old town center, is also available in this area.

Sciacca seen from the sea.

Archeological Site of Selinunte

Selinunte is 30 km (19 miles) from Sciacca. It is one of the most famous attractions in Sicily.

The place was once a bustling city in ancient Greece. Today, it contains the ruins of an acropolis and temples.

You can wander freely around the area, even inside the temples. However, it is not easy to find shade in summer—something to consider if the weather is hot. If you are not into walking, you can rent a golf cart.

The site is located right on the beach. There are two excellent beaches to the side.

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

The Valley of the Temples is a Sicilian attraction you should not miss, especially if you are already in the area.

Agrigento is further from Sciacca than Selinunte. It takes half an hour to drive to Selinunte and 1 1/2 hours to drive to Agrigento.

Agrigento's Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily's biggest attractions. No other place in the world - at least not outside Greece - has a comparable collection of Greek temples.

You can read more about the Valley of the Temples HERE.

The Festivals and Events in Sciacca Sicily

The most famous event in Sciacca is the Carnival, held annually in February. This lively celebration features colorful parades, elaborate floats, and masked balls, attracting visitors from all over Sicily and beyond.

In addition to the Carnival, the town also hosts the festivals of Madonna del Soccorso, dedicated to the patron saint of Sciacca. This event, celebrated first in February and again in summer, involves a series of religious processions, music, and traditional food stalls.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Sciacca Sicily

There are buses to Sciacca from Trapani, Palermo, and Agrigento. Outside these main roads, the best way to get from one place to another is by private car.

For example, Selinunte is only 30 km away. However, trying to get there by public transport is rather pointless. Renting a car or taxi or joining a tour operator is better.

It is worth noting that the bus station is quite far from the city center. The best way to get there is by taxi unless the accommodation provider then arranges transport.

There is public transport within Sciacca. For example, traveling from the city center to the Enchanted Castle is easy. However, the journey from the center to the bus station would have taken an hour, which is unreasonable given the relatively short distance.

You can get around on foot in the city center and on the beaches. Bikes are not much help unless they are electric bikes, as the city is built on a slope.

Madonna del Soccorso, the patron saint of Sciacca.

Conclusion: Why Sciacca Sicily Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

In conclusion, Sciacca Sicily is a captivating destination that perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The stunning attractions, from the Enchanted Castle to the picturesque beaches, provide ample opportunities for activities and relaxation.

For those seeking unique experiences, Sciacca's off-the-beaten-path nature offers insights into the local culture and natural beauty that are one of a kind.

Sciacca is accessible to all travelers, with various accommodation options and convenient transportation from Western Sicily's main cities.

Sciacca is a great destination at any time of year. In the early part of the year, don't miss the Carnival, which takes place in February. In summer, head for the beaches. Intermediate periods are well-suited for cultural activities.

An essential addition to any travel bucket list.

Trapani and Western Sicily

Marsala

Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples

Things to Do in Palermo

Car Rental in Sicily