Located at the mouth of the Mazaro River, it stretches between Capo Feto and Capo Granitola. It was first conquered by the Carthaginians and then by the Romans; later, under Arab rule, it was named “la Rocca” and became the fortified center of the Val di Mazara. During their presence, the town played a prominent role in commerce and agriculture, as well as in activities related to the port. The urban layout of the settlement developed according to the Islamic settlement model. Following the Norman domination (1072), it was elevated to an episcopal see and a royal city until 1531. Thanks to the enterprising spirit of its people, it has become Italy’s leading fishing port, with activities related to deep-sea fishing, onboard freezing of the catch, and the preservation and freezing on land of white fish and shellfish.
During your stay in Mazara, you absolutely must visit the Cathedral Basilica, the Episcopal Palace, and the Clerics’ Seminary. Continuing through the public gardens of Villa Jolanda and reaching Piazza Plebiscito, lift your gaze toward the Arabesque domes of the churches of Carmine and Sant’Egidio. Also in Piazza Plebiscito, a visit to our most famous citizen is a must: “The Dancing Satyr”, who will welcome you in his museum.
