Custonaci

One of the most important places of worship in western Sicily, this sanctuary stands at the heart of Custonaci and is central to its spiritual and cultural identity. According to tradition, the icon of the Madonna arrived by sea in the 15th century, leading locals to build a church in her honour. The present building, dating to the 15th–16th centuries, features late Gothic and Renaissance elements, with a rose window, polychrome marble altar, and frescoes by Domenico La Bruna. Outside, a mosaic-paved forecourt offers a scenic entrance. The Madonna is venerated as the patron saint of Custonaci and the surrounding countryside, and her feast is celebrated with a major procession each August.

Discovered in 1982 and excavated since 2012, this is the oldest known Islamic granary in Italy. Dating from the 10th–11th centuries during Arab rule in Sicily, the structure was carved into limestone and designed as a fortified communal storehouse. Known as an Aghadir, it features multiple storage chambers and defensive walls. Located on a scenic promontory, it offers a rare look into medieval Islamic rural infrastructure in the western Mediterranean.

One of the largest prehistoric caves in western Sicily, Grotta Mangiapane was inhabited from the Upper Paleolithic through the 20th century. It later became a rural hamlet, with houses, animal shelters, and workshops built inside and around the cave. Today, it serves as an open-air museum and hosts cultural events, including a renowned living Nativity scene in December.

A scenic natural park on a rocky outcrop with sweeping views of the Gulf of Bonagia, Mount Cofano, and Mount Erice. The park links Custonaci’s historic centre with the village of Scurati and the Grotta Mangiapane. It features Mediterranean vegetation including dwarf palms, agaves, and carob trees, as well as a rich variety of native flora restored through local reforestation efforts. Historically, the path through the park served as a pilgrimage route to the Chapel of the Crucifix near Monte Cofano.

Located within the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Custonaci, this small but rich museum offers insight into centuries of Marian devotion. Opened in 2005, it houses a collection of paintings, ex-votos, liturgical items, and devotional objects. Highlights include a 16th-century bas-relief of the Madonna and Child, a faithful copy of the original Madonna of Custonaci painting, the ornate 1831 processional platform (Vara), and the unique Macchinetta crafted by Sicilian migrants in America. Temporary exhibits complement the permanent collection.

Explore two mysterious megaliths on Mount Sparagio: the Gate of the Sun, a trilithon aligned with the winter solstice sunset, and the Horse of the Sun, a zoomorphic stone formation resembling a horse. Likely used as ancient solar markers, these remote monuments offer panoramic views and a unique glimpse into prehistoric Sicily.

Monte Cofano is a limestone promontory surrounded by coastal trails offering panoramic sea views, ancient watchtowers, and access to secluded coves. Popular routes include the coastal path connecting the Tonnara di Cofano and Torre San Giovanni, and inland trails that loop around the mountain. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging ascents, suitable for most fitness levels.

Explore the rich marine environment along the coast of Monte Cofano, where underwater cliffs, inlets, and clear waters make for excellent diving and snorkelling. One of the main attractions is the Stella Maris, a submerged statue of the Madonna of Custonaci, placed beneath the waves as a symbolic protector of the sea. Diving tours are available locally, and the area is also suitable for confident snorkellers.