The 14 unmissable Sicilian tuna nets: a journey through history and the sea

1. Tonnara di Scopello (Castellammare del Golfo, Trapani)

Sicilian tuna nets: The Tonnara di Scopello is one of the most iconic and photographed tuna nets in Sicily. Located in the beautiful town of Scopello, a hamlet of Castellammare del Golfo, it overlooks a clear sea, framed by the famous Faraglioni rocks. Built in the 13th century and managed for centuries by various noble Sicilian families, including the Florios, it was active until the 1980s. Its structure is still well preserved, and the tonnara is now a tourist destination that tells the history and traditions of tuna fishing, as well as a film set used in films such as Ocean’s Twelve and Il Commissario Montalbano.

History and Architecture

The tonnara was built to take advantage of Scopello’s strategic location for tuna fishing, a very profitable activity until the early 20th century. The structure includes several historical buildings, including the ‘death chamber’, where the tuna were taken in the final phase of fishing. Inside, the ancient system of nets and equipment that were used for the mattanza, the ritual of intensive tuna fishing, is still visible.

In addition to the fishing facilities, there is a small fishing village that once housed the families of the tuna fishermen. This village is now a tourist site with areas open to the public, but it is also possible to visit some of the old dwellings and original structures.

What to Do and See

• Faraglioni di Scopello: The Faraglioni are impressive rock formations that emerge from the clear waters, creating a spectacular landscape.
• Tonnara Museum: You can visit a small exhibition collecting equipment, photographs and documents on the tradition of tuna fishing.
• Beach and Snorkelling: The waters around the tonnara are particularly clear and suitable for diving and snorkelling, with rocky seabeds rich in marine fauna.

Where to eat

1. La Terrazza di Scopello – Medium – Distance from the tonnara 100 metres
   Restaurant with a splendid view of the Faraglioni rocks, specialising in Sicilian cuisine and fresh fish dishes
   • .laterrazzadiscopello.it
2. Ristorante Torre Bennistra – Economical – Distance from the tonnara 200 metres
   Cosy trattoria with typical cuisine, famous for its pasta with sardines and arancine
   • .torrebennistra.it
3. Il Baglio – Medium – Distance from the Tonnara 250 metres
   In the centre of Scopello, this restaurant offers Sicilian specialities, fish and local produce
   • .ilbaglioscopello.com

Where to Sleep

1. Baglio dello Zingaro – Medium – Distance from the Tonnara 700 metres
   Traditional accommodation just minutes from the Zingaro Nature Reserve, with comfortable rooms
   • .bagliodellozingaro.com
2. Casale La Macina – Economical – 2 Km
   B&B immersed in greenery, excellent for those seeking peace and relaxation
   • .casalelamacina.com
3. Tonnara di Scopello – Luxury – 0 metres
   Charming accommodation with sea view, located in the historic structure of the tonnara itself
   • .tonnarascopello.it

What to see in the surroundings

1. Zingaro Nature Reserve: Protected natural area with scenic paths and hidden coves
   • .Coordinates: 38.1004° N, 12.7967° E
2. Castellammare del Golfo: A charming fishing village with a castle overlooking the sea and a marina
   • .Coordinates: 38.0296° N, 12.8801° E
3. Faraglioni di Scopello: Majestic rocks ideal for photography, snorkelling and scuba diving
   • .Coordinates: 38.0731° N, 12.8212° E

This is the Tonnara di Scopello: a place where nature, history and Sicilian tradition come together, making it an unmissable destination for those visiting western Sicily.