Welcome to today’s article where we will talk about the white cliffs of Agrigento. Indeed, if you’re planning a vacation in Agrigento, it will be helpful to know more about this beautiful tourist attraction.
The Scala dei Turchi in Realmonte is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations, both by Italians and (perhaps especially) by foreigners visiting the Valley of the Temples, known worldwide for being featured in many famous films with its white walls of marl.
The Scala dei Turchi has a wavy and irregular shape, with fairly gentle and rounded lines. The typical color of the rock is pure white, which is due to the particular type of minerals present.
Let’s delve into the history of the Scala dei Turchi. It takes its name from the Saracen pirates, inaccurately called Turks, who in the 16th century used to land on the rock formation to plunder villages. The stepped wall, hence the name “scala” (stairs), made it relatively easy for pirates to land from the sea for their raids, in a sheltered spot from the winds and with little control. The “Scala” is made of marl, a sedimentary rock of clayey and calcareous nature.
This is a geologically known site where it’s possible to observe cycles linked to changes in orbital parameters: in particular, variations in insulation can be well correlated with cycles of about 21,000 years and variations in the eccentricity of the orbit with cycles of 100,000 years.
Pride of all Sicilians, the Scala dei Turchi has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sicilian Regional Assembly unanimously approved a motion to protect the beautiful natural coast by proposing its candidacy as a site.
One of the aspects that most interests tourists visiting the area is that just a stone’s throw from the imposing natural monument, there is a full calendar of organized events. Every year, the municipality of Realmonte sets up a precise daily program of theatrical performances, cabaret shows, and concerts that take place right in the Costabianca theater.
But how can you reach the Scala dei Turchi?
It can be easily reached from the archaeological site of the Valley of the Temples or from the city of Agrigento. In this regard, you just need to follow the SS115 towards Porto Empedocle. Coming from Trapani, Erice, and Selinunte, instead, you have to follow the SS115 to Realmonte and then follow the signs directly to the Scala dei Turchi.
Once you’ve parked your car, you can start the approach on foot and to enter the “Lido Scala dei Turchi” restaurant, just follow the path provided by the owners of the establishment. After a short walk of just 5 minutes, you’ll find yourself at the foot of the splendid Scala dei Turchi, divided between two beaches with particularly fine sand.
Finally, we can recommend a great attraction not to be missed, a unique experience. From May to September, there is the possibility of taking real boat excursions through private or group tours, which also include special romantic aperitifs at sunset. What are you waiting for?
