Paterna between Nature, Coast and History

Paterna between Coast, Nature and History

Paterna combines coastal landscapes, nature and traces of history. The nearby Capo Rama nature reserve in Terrasini lies on a high limestone cliff, features dwarf palms and encompasses a 57-hectare WWF oasis. For those interested in nature, this creates a tangible connection to rock, protected areas and the coast.

The Torre Paternella on the Cliff Edge

The Torre Paternella is located in the area of the former Paterna fief, in a region still known as Paterna or Paternella today. It stands 25 m above sea level near the cliff edge. Access to the ruins of the Torre Paternella is via the turnoff at km 298.7 from the SS 113 towards Partinico; continue for approximately 150 m to the right and then follow a dirt track.

Historical Traces in the Surrounding Area

The Contrada Paterna, together with other latifundia, belonged to the Zucco fief, which at the time belonged to the Duke of Orléans, and lay outside the former boundaries of the Terrasini fief. There are traces of Roman settlements in the Paterna area. Grotta Grande appears in ancient sources under the name „Grottazza“; pirates were able to hide there.

Glass and Candles in the Contrada Paterna

The Contrada Paterna is home to a factory producing mouth-blown glass and artistically designed candles. Galarte produces mouth-blown Pyrex glass objects that are handmade and hand-decorated, and created in an artistic manner.

Museums, Castle and Historic Site

The Museo regionale di storia naturale e mostra permanente del carretto siciliano di Terrasini is a museum in the area around Paterna. The Castello di Carini is a castle in the vicinity of Paterna, while the Catacomba di Villagrazia di Carini is classified there as a historic site. The Museo Etnografico G. Pitrè, a museum, is also located in the wider regional area around Paterna.

Beaches and Mountain Landscapes

Spiaggia di Salvina is a beach in the immediate vicinity of Paterna. Spiaggia di Piano Inferno Marina, also a beach, is likewise located nearby. La Praiola is a beach in the area around Paterna. Monte Palmeto is a mountain in the immediate vicinity of Paterna. The area around Paterna therefore offers a variety of coastal features and a distinctive mountain as landscape themes.

Choose Accommodation Based on Your Interests

When selecting a hotel or other accommodation for Paterna, you can tailor the focus of your trip to specific local features: Capo Rama and the beaches, the Torre Paternella and traces of Roman settlements, or museums, the castle and the historic site.

More Destinations

More places for planning your trip: Lascari, Gibilmanna, Gratteri, Borgetto, Grisì, Santa Flavia, Ventimiglia Di Sicilia, Cerda.

To the higher-level travel overview: Palermo.