Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sciacca
POP 40,930
Famous for its historic spas and flamboyant carnival celebrations, Sciacca is the main
town on this stretch of the coast. It was founded in the 5th century BC as a thermal resort
for nearby Selinunte and later flourished under the Saracens, who arrived in the 9th cen-
tury and named it
Xacca
(meaning 'water' in Arabic), and the Normans. Its healing waters
continue to be the big drawcard, attracting coachloads of Italian tourists who come to treat
their assorted ailments in the sulphurous vapours and mineral-rich mud. Spas and thermal
cures apart, it's a laid-back town with an attractive medieval core and some excellent sea-
food restaurants.
Sciacca retains much of its medieval layout, which divided the town into quarters, each
laid out on a strip of rock descending towards the sea. Today interest is focused on the
main artery, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, and the historic centre above it. About halfway
along the street, Piazza Scandaliato is a popular hang-out, with views (and stairs) to the
fishing harbour below.
