Isola Delle Femmine: Nature and Underwater Archaeology

Isola delle Femmine combines coastline, distinctive natural features and maritime history. The Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve covers approximately 15 hectares and is entirely designated as Zone A. It contains more than 120 species of Mediterranean garrigue vegetation.

Nature between Garrigue and Marine Reserve

The natural area also includes the Capo Gallo–Isola delle Femmine marine reserve. Along the rocky coasts, there is a vermetid reef formed by colonies of the small mollusc species Dendropoma petraeum. The vermetid reef adds an unusual marine life form to the natural area.

Underwater Archaeology and Maritime Experiences

In the waters of Isola delle Femmine, the Soprintendenza del Mare of the Sicilian Region has established three underwater archaeological routes. The eastern underwater archaeological route can be reached from the harbour of Isola delle Femmine in a five-minute boat ride. In Zone C of the marine park, visitors can explore the wreck of a Junkers Ju-52 trimotor aircraft at a depth of 46 metres.

EXPLORA also offers a glass-bottom boat trip in Isola delle Femmine, allowing visitors to observe underwater life. The glass-bottom boat trip focuses on underwater life, while the archaeological routes and aircraft wreck highlight historical traces in the sea.

Towers, Sanctuary and Living Tradition

On land, too, you will encounter distinctive historical features. The Torre in terra, also known as Torre di Capaci, is a round coastal watchtower from the 15th century; its lower level served as a cistern. The Torre di Fuori on the offshore islet was designed by the military architect C. Camilliani and built at the end of the 16th century with two rainwater cisterns.

The Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie in Isola delle Femmine was consecrated as a sanctuary in 1995. The Feast of the Madonna delle Grazie is celebrated every year from 2 July until the following Sunday and includes a procession through the town. A tonnara in Isola delle Femmine is documented for the year 1176 through its donation to the Bishop of Monreale.

Fishing and Everyday Market Life

Isola delle Femmine has historically been shaped by fishing, particularly lampuga fishing using traditional floating platforms known as “cannizzi”. At the fish market in the harbour of Isola delle Femmine, visitors can buy fresh fish every morning, landed by the fishermen.

Ferry Connection from Palermo

The island of the Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve can be reached by ferry from Palermo. This makes it possible to combine the stay with the natural, cultural and aquatic attractions of Isola delle Femmine.

Discover More Places

For additional travel ideas in the region, find Bolognetta, Geraci Siculo, Palazzo Adriano, Paterna, Mezzojuso, Grisì, Castellana Sicula and Santa Flavia here.

Palermo