La Scala dei Turchi: what magic!
Hi I’m Ester, a landscape photographer in search of wonders to show. Sicily has always been my favorite destination; I go back there every summer, I rent a car with Sicily Rent Car and travel to discover unique photographic spots.
Today I tell you about the Scala dei Turchi of Realmonte in the province of Agrigento, an unmissable destination on the west coast of Sicily.
The Scala dei Turchi – history and curiosity
The Scala dei Turchi is known for the particularity of its white marl walls, forged by waves and wind over millions of years; this is due to its undulating and irregular shape where the white of minerals dominates the scene.
A native fisherman, a guy named Giuseppe, told me that the Scala dei Turchi is so called because in the 16th century the Saracen pirates, „Turkish people“, used to land there to plunder the villages.
At the moment it is not possible to access the Scala dei Turchi, but its infinite beauty can be contemplated from afar. Giuseppe, told me that the beach is at risk of erosion and it is necessary to preserve its original appearance and not to let it be deteriorated by human activities.
Many associations, together with local people like Giuseppe, have denounced the seriousness of the situation, made more and more complicated by the bad management of the water and the impact of the tourist presence that they are trying to contain.
The Scala dei Turchi is currently a candidate to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this also explains why it has been chosen by many directors of the calibre of Giuseppe Tornatore as the backdrop for some scenes in their films. Among the most important ones I suggest you watch: „Malèna“, „Il Commissario Montalbano“ and „In Guerra per Amore“.
The Scala dei Turchi – how to get there
Often the visit to the Scala dei Turchi passes through the archaeological site of the Valley of the Temples or the city of Agrigento, if you are in that area follow the SS115 in the direction of Porto Empedocle, then take via Nereo, along the coast in the direction of Zona Lidi for 2.4 km until the signs that indicate Parking or the belvedere.
Coming from Trapani, Erice and Selinunte follow the SS115 to Realmonte and then the indication „Scala dei Turchi“, it is very easy to reach.
There are several authorized pay parking lots along the coast. I strongly advise you not to park outside the parking spaces, especially in high season in order to avoid heavy fines or forced removal of the vehicle.
SUMMARY + TIPS
To enjoy all the charm that emanates from the great white cliff, I suggest you to go out of season, the best months are May and October; in this way you will avoid the tourist crowds to give space to the emotions that can give this place.
Not to be missed: high sun protection and non-slip cliff shoes.
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