Pantelleria

Pantelleria , commune (municipality) of around 6,000 inhabitants in the province of Trapani, entirely covers the volcanic island of the same name. It is 85 km away from Sicily and 70 km from North Africa; its central location in the Mediterranean Sea has rendered it a commerce pole with the East since ancient times. Due to its geological origin, there are frequent secondary volcanic phenomena like fumaroles, hot water springs and plains of lava flows which, together with the numerous coves and stacks, contribute to render this landscape unique and unforgettable. The last eruption, however, dates back to 1891 and formed the steeped northwest slope. Other distinctive features of the island of Pantelleria are the particular man-made constructions, such as muri a secco (stone walls without mortar), used to limit estates and enclose the land, the Arab gardens, used for protecting citrus trees from the wind, and the very typical dammusi , rural lava stone huts with white-domed roofs and thick walls. Finally, the famous Pantelleria’s cuisine is worth mentioning, characterised by bits and pieces of the traditions of the various peoples that dominated the island; the most well-known and appreciated dishes by tourists are the scented Pesto pantesco (Pantelleria’s sauce), the exquisite Couscous di pesce (Fish couscous) and the fancy salads.