The island of Pantelleria measures about 80 km2 and is located approximately 110 km from the south-eastern coast of Sicily, 65 km north east of Tunisia.
It has a jagged coastline and rough slopes covered with terraces of cultivated crops bounded by characteristic drystone walls. It is famous for its crystal-clear waters, abundant sea life and the characteristic houses of Arabic origin known as dammusi. The highest point of the island is montagna Grande (836m). Volcanic in nature, the land is extremely fertile and well suited to grape cultivation.
The main town, destroyed during WWII, has been rebuilt without a proper regulatory plan. Castle Barbacane, commissioned by Federico II of Swabia, rises from the cases clustered around the harbour, its present-day appearance due to multiple demolitions and rebuilding.
The villages and borgos of the island include: Scauri, with a pretty harbour, standing on high on a cliff; Rekhale, with the old dammusi and Arabic gardens; and Gadir, a little fishing harbour with thermal waters. Stunning views can be enjoyed from punta Fram, punta dell’Arco, famous for its elephant trunk shape, and punta Spadillo, where a lighthouse is located.
Sicilia Film Commission
Via Emanuele Notarbartolo 9 — 90141 Palermo
Phone: +39 091 7078008; +39 091 7078264; +39 091 7078133; +39 091 7078145
Email: filmcommission@regione.sicilia.it
