THE HISTORY OF

Nestled along the rugged coastline of northwestern Sicily, is a place where history and nature intertwine in breathtaking harmony. With its origins tracing back to the 13th century, this ancient tuna fishery stands as a testament to Sicily’s deep-rooted connection to the sea and its age-old traditions.

For centuries, the mattanza, a dramatic and ritualistic tuna fishing practice, defined the rhythm of life in Scopello. Skilled fishermen, known as tonnaroti, carried out this elaborate process, guided by knowledge passed down through generations. The labyrinth of underwater nets, the rhythmic chants of the workers, and the sheer power of the sea created a spectacle that was beautifully poetic.

The Tonnara di Scopello is on the route where large groups of tuna would travel towards the small island of Favignana to lay down their eggs. The natural shape of Scopello forms a nice base for the fisherman to catch, kill, and preserve the tuna with olive oil.

The activity started much earlier than we can imagine, but it became well managed and strengthened by proper organization and tools in the 15th century, and, thanks to the Florio family in the 19th century, productivity was increased at a pretty decent rate. The Tonnara flourished during the 19th century, reaching the height of its prosperity. However as the fishing industry evolved and the traditional methods waned, the Tonnara gradually fell into disuse.

Today, it remains a preserved historical site, a place of nostalgia and beauty, where visitors can wander through time. The imposing faraglioni serve as silent sentinels of a past that continues to echo in the waves.

The grand baglio, or courtyard, and its weathered stone buildings, which once housed fishermen and their tools, still stand today, whispering stories of toil, triumph, and the ever-changing tides of fortune.

Although these buildings have since been converted into the most beautiful luxury apartments, they have left the key features and elements that remind you that you’re still staying in a 13th-century building.

* Fun Fact: Tonnara di Scopello was featured in Oceans 12 ! *

https://www.tonnaradiscopello.it/en/museum/