A favourite post to create at the end of my time in each destination are these. Providing ideas, that are not only budget friendly, but perhaps unique and special, hidden gems if you will. Here are 5 free things to do in Marsala Sicily that made my time here memorable.
Genna Salt Pans
One of the attractions to this part of Sicily are the traditional salt pans and old windmills. The closest one to Marsala is Genna. Walk north from the city for about 45 minutes to reach these. On route you will pass the old Airforce base and naval operations.
The Phoenicians were harvesting salt here 2,700 years ago. These pans or ‘saline’ as they are called, are pools used to collect the salt. The saline closer to the shore are shallower and therefore hold a more saturated brine. Once the water dissipates from these, the salt can be harvested.
Visitors can explore the windmill that was originally used to transfer brine from one pan to another. See the piles of salt and old wooden implements used to gather and farm this precious commodity. If you are interested in further exploration of the area, there are many tours offered by Genna. I took a boat ride to the island of Mozia for €10 return.
Lighthouse & Port
Just south of the older part of Marsala is a beautiful coastal area to walk and explore. Head first out towards the lighthouse. All along this port, see locals fishing in the harbour and some even selling their catch in the mornings.
The lighthouse itself is inaccessible but makes for a picturesque view including the old fishing vessel docked nearby. Back track now and head further south. Here find the marina full of fishing boats and yachts. The ferry to the Egadi islands is located on this part of the marina, should you wish to venture over.
Sanctuary of Maria SS della Cava
Hidden beneath the streets of Marsala are four layers of fascinating history. Enter from a ramp here, and walk down towards the inner gardens. When I went down, a man came out from the little church that is tucked into the corner. He motioned for me to follow him and I did.
After opening a door towards the rear of the garden, under a stone wall, he beckoned me forward. With trepidation I stepped inside a dark underground church and my breath escaped me. At this point, you find yourself standing inside an ancient cave church, one of four, built on top of each other.
In the early 16th century, a tiny statue of the Madonna was hidden deep inside the well that you can see today. Walk around, gasp at the frescoes that litter the walls. Take the steps down to the lower level and try to absorb all that you see. I’m sorry for not being able to provide specifics about opening times and such. All I can say is go there, and hope that you too can be allowed inside this historical treasure.
Markets
I will always find a market anywhere I travel, and here I found two! The fish market is definitely geared towards tourists and is located right beside the beautiful Garibaldi Gate. Vendors are selling all sorts of seasonal seafood, caught fresh from the local waters that morning.
The Sunday market, or Mercato del Contadino, is where you want to visit to see what is being farmed in the area. Located in a parking lot near the port, it takes place every Sunday from 8am to 2pm.
Find loads of local produce, everything that is currently in season, and watch as shoppers fill their bags with a bounty of colourful eats. Of special interest to me were the bottles of wine, Marsala being a region for wine production. The large size, abundance, and vibrant colours of everything for sale is interesting to see.
Wine Fountain
An unusual sight on a main street is this comical fountain that was constructed in 1970. Located in Piazza Francesco Pizzo, this large sculpture captures a kicking donkey and a woman who is reclining, ‘wine’ pouring out of her. The scale and provocative aspects of this fountain will definitely add character and conversation to your visit to Marsala.
Marsala has not been my favourite part of Sicily by any means. Living here for this short while has made me dig deep to find its beauty. Rest assured, it is here, there are reasons to visit this most western part of the island. For the most fascinating history, see my previous posts. There will be costs involved, but they are reasonable for the exceptional history you will see.
