Last year I spent some time on the east side of Sicily and absolutely loved that experience. I lived in Modica Alta for over a month and spent days in Catania. I have decided to return, but try the west coast this time. Wow, I am startled at the difference. Here are my first impressions of Marsala Sicily.
Flat
Where the east coast is mountainous and hilly, the west is flat as a pancake. This coastal area consists of marshes and estuaries and I’m happy to see that some of them are being protected. It makes sense that this is such a rich agricultural region, being so flat.
Small
Marsala is so much smaller than I had imagined. Being Sicily’s fifth largest city, and the largest on the west coast, I had imagined it to be considerably bigger. The historical core, where I am situated, consists of only a few streets. And most of these contain buildings that are rather plain. The few ornate churches and gates stand out as a marvellous contrast though.
The bulk of the city is bland concrete apartment complexes that appear to have been constructed this century. It feels like, upon first sight, that the old historical buildings have been pulled down and replaced.
Run Down
With the exception of a handful of buildings and churches, most of the historic quarter and many newer buildings seem unkept. As I walk around, I see piles of refuse and garbage dumped just about anywhere there is an empty plot of land no matter how small. Weeds grow with abandon, playgrounds broken, and general upkeep of public spaces seems lacking.
Sadly, the coastal areas seem to be a popular location for dumping volumes of rubbish. There is a seaside walk that has loads of potential; however, it is not a pleasant place to stroll, mostly because of the garbage. The area surrounding the largest church and town square is really quite lovely though, and the place to explore if one is here for only a few hours.
Train & Bus
Because of the size of Marsala, there is a train station and a handful of regional buses stop here. This is going to be of use to me, as I’m looking forward to some day trips. With Marsala being so much smaller than I had anticipated, I’m going to have to look further afield for places to explore.
Costs
Prices seem unreasonably high for this area. Not only my accommodation, but the prices of food are particularly higher than I had experienced on the other side of the island. I’ll shop around and see what I can source. So far it seems the markets are just as expensive if not higher than the grocery shops.
Stares
Why is everyone staring at me? Particularly the males, but also the females to some extent, although they look away quicker. At first, I thought I had something sticking to my clothing, or on my face. But it’s happening every time I leave the flat. So much so, that it’s unnerving and I don’t feel particularly safe.
Hmmmm, this will be an interesting stay! I have such mixed feelings about being here. I’ve even contemplated bailing and heading to another part of the island. Curious and interesting how destinations can either feel right at home and lovely or conversely, like this, awkward and just not right. I look forward to the challenge. While the beauty might not be effortless and abundant like it has been in Malta, I will find it. 😁
