There’s more to Pozzallo than sun, sea and sand, with a vibrant atmosphere and a storied history making it a fascinating place to visit. On top of this, only a short drive away lie some of Sicily’s most precious architectural jewels, making for the perfect combination of relaxation and culture.
Spend a day at the beach
At the heart of Pozzallo’s historic old town is Piazza della Rimembranza, the square where locals gather. They come here to chat and take shelter from the sun beneath the 46 palm trees, planted as a monument to those who fell in the world wars.
Close by stands the Torre Cabrera, a watch tower built in 1429 to protect the strategically placed town from regular pirate attacks. Today, it’s open to the public as a museum, overlooking the Spiaggia Pietre Nere (black stones beach).
Discover Lungomare Pietrenere, Pozzallo’s seafront promenade, perfect for an evening stroll to take in a sunset before sitting back for dinner in one of the many waterfront restaurants and cafes. The three-mile stretch of coastline from Pozzallo to Santa Maria del Focallo is one long, flawless sandy beach, backed by dunes and lined with parasol shades, sun beds and beach bars.
Enjoy lunch by the sea
You’ll find another great beach at Sampieri, about seven miles west of Pozzallo, beyond the resort of Marina di Modica. This picturesque old fishing village is well worth visiting, with its maze of narrow streets, lined with tightly packed stone houses, which climb up from the little harbor. After sunbathing and swimming in the warm sea, you can enjoy a delicious fish lunch in one of the beachside restaurants that brim with delicious local produce.
Visit beautiful baroque churches
About 12 miles inland from Pozzallo is the bustling town of Modica, famous for its Baroque churches. They’re spread around the town, but the spectacular church of Saint George is unmissable. It stands majestically at the top of a 250-step staircase, high above the medieval alleyways of the historic center, and is one of Sicily's most extraordinary sights. Have your camera at the ready.
Five miles inland from Pozzallo is the beautiful town of Ispica, standing atop a hill in a wild and rugged landscape. After a devastating earthquake in 1693, Ispica was rebuilt in a flamboyant Sicilian Baroque style, along with a number of other towns in the area. Highlights include the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the church of the Annunziata and the castle-like Palazzo Belmonte, which houses the town hall.
Experience Sicily’s great baroque star
If you visit only one Baroque town during your Sicilian adventure, make sure it’s Noto. It’s a priceless architectural jewel, and home to one of Sicily's most beautiful historic centers. Walk down the elegant Corso Vittorio Emanuele and you’ll be blown away by the sheer magnificence of the palazzi and churches, which are best appreciated when the setting sun bathes the entire town in a magical soft golden-honeyed glow.
Start at the Porta Reale and head east as far as the public gardens, passing Piazza XVI Maggio, with its magnificent Church of San Domenico and Fountain of Hercules, and the beautiful Palazzo Ducrezio.
Renting a car in Pozzallo is the best way to explore this historical city, access some of Sicily’s finest beaches, and delve into the area’s captivating past.