Aspra - Province of Palermo
Aspra is part of the charming town of Bagheria, located in the province of Palermo. This small village is well known for its beautiful Lungomare, where you can admire stunning sunsets, and for its traditional ice cream, still made following ancient recipes.
If you plan to visit Aspra, you should not miss the spectacular frescoes painted by Renato Guttuso, housed in the main church of the village. Inspired by the rugged and intense faces of Aspra’s hardworking inhabitants, Guttuso portrayed Christ and the Saints using their somatic traits.
A very famous event is the sea procession of Maria SS. Addolorata, celebrated on September 15th.
Aspra is also one of the most important producers of salted anchovies in Sicily, and its interactive museum offers a journey through the history of the Sicilian sardine and anchovy industry, featuring personal stories, live music, and a recreated fishing village scene.
Bagheria - Province of Palermo
Located on a cape on the outskirts of Palermo, the city dates back to the Phoenicians, who named it Baaria, from the Arabic baḥriyya (ﺑﺤﺮﻳـة), meaning "area that slopes down towards the sea."
While fans of The Godfather movies might recognize the name Bagheria from the films, it is also celebrated in other movies, particularly by hometown director Giuseppe Tornatore. His beautiful and touching Nuovo Cinema Paradiso was inspired by his upbringing here, with several local places featured in the film.
Enjoy the dozens of villas scattered throughout the old town, many adorned with Sicilian Baroque touches (as are the churches). Villa Palagonia is the most renowned, famous for its unusual decorations. Also known as the "Villa of Monsters," it is adorned with more than 200 statues of dragons and other fantastical creatures. Villa Butera is also worth mentioning, with its neo-Medieval tower outlined with crenellations, blending harmoniously with Baroque style; the villa was built in 1658. Lastly, Villa Cattolica hosts a museum dedicated to Bagheria's famous neo-realist painter, Renato Guttuso.
Sant'Elia - Province of Palermo
Sant’Elia, a small hamlet in the municipality of Santa Flavia, is a charming seaside village just a short walk from Porticello (the two towns are practically attached). It is one of the most characteristic and picturesque spots in the area. Blessed by nature thanks to its ideal geographical position, Sant’Elia overlooks a clean, blue sea and a coastline with breathtaking views.
From the hilltop where a small shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary stands — known to all as La Madonnina — visitors can enjoy an exclusive and striking panorama stretching from Capo Zafferano to Solanto.
One of the village’s main features is its colorful houses facing the sea, some of which have been captured by renowned photographers. This unique setting and the small beach nestled in a cove with crystal-clear waters offer tourists a peaceful and relaxing experience.
Porticello - Province of Palermo
Nestled along the stunning Sicilian coast, Porticello is a vibrant fishing village that captures the true spirit of Mediterranean life. With its colorful boats, lively seafront Porticello offers an authentic and unforgettable experience. Spend your days wandering the charming streets, dining on exquisite local cuisine, and relaxing on beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.
The village is dominated by the ruins of Solunto, an ancient Punic city and one of the first Phoenician trading posts established in Sicily. Once a prosperous settlement, Solunto was later sacked and destroyed during the Middle Ages by the Arabs. Today, its fascinating ruins still stand, offering a glimpse into its storied past.
Perfectly located near Palermo, Porticello is the ideal destination for travelers seeking beauty, culture, and relaxation.
