The Scala dei Turchi is one of the most fascinating natural wonders of Sicily. It is located along the southwestern coast of the island, in the territory of Realmonte, near Porto Empedocle, in the province of Agrigento.
The Scala dei Turchi is a dazzling white cliff made of marl, a sedimentary rock with a clayey composition. Over the centuries, wind and sea erosion have sculpted it into large, undulating steps. These natural "stairs" inspired the name of the cliff, as it truly resembles a staircase.
The name also comes from past pirate raids by the Saracens, who were mistakenly referred to as "Turks." In the 16th century, they used to land in this area, which was sheltered from the winds, and used the natural "steps" to climb the cliff and raid nearby villages, including the present-day town of Realmonte.
Currently, visits are limited, and an entrance ticket must be purchased in advance. There are two access time slots: from 9:00 AM to 12:45 PM and from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
The Scala dei Turchi is a dazzling white cliff made of marl, a sedimentary rock with a clayey composition. Over the centuries, wind and sea erosion have sculpted it into large, undulating steps. These natural "stairs" inspired the name of the cliff, as it truly resembles a staircase.
The name also comes from past pirate raids by the Saracens, who were mistakenly referred to as "Turks." In the 16th century, they used to land in this area, which was sheltered from the winds, and used the natural "steps" to climb the cliff and raid nearby villages, including the present-day town of Realmonte.
Currently, visits are limited, and an entrance ticket must be purchased in advance. There are two access time slots: from 9:00 AM to 12:45 PM and from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM.