Ustica

Peculiar characteristic of the island is the presence of numerous caves that open along the high and steep coasts, as well as numerous rocks and shoals all around: Grotta Verde, Blue Grotto, Grotta della Pastizza, Gotta dell'Oro, Grotta delle Grotta Columns and the rocks of Doctor and Colombara. Human settlements date back to Palaeolithic, some archaeological excavations have brought to light the remains of ancient Christian village: burials, tunnels and a large amount of archaeological finds also found under water testify the passage of Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans, beyond that base of Saracen pirates for a very long time. In 1759 Ferdinando IV di Borbone promoted the colonization of the island, building two watchtowers, Torre Santa Maria and Torre Spalmatore, integral part of defensive system of coastal towers of Sicily, summoning palaces from Palermo, Trapani and Aeolian. To visit, Torre Santa Maria Archaeological Museum, which collects remains and materials of the settlements of ancient Ustica civilizations and objects of Prehistoric Mediterranean peoples. Village of Tramontana, not far from the town, is Prehistoric site of Bronze Age. Church Ferdinando Re, in the center of the town, dominates the square of Ustica. Built in 1771 it was entrusted to Capuchin friars and in the '70s it was enriched by ceramic statues by Giovanni de Simone. For lovers of marine fauna, Sparioatore Aquarium, within Marine Reserve, collects a collection of aquatic species from Mediterranean. Patronal feast dedicated to San Bartolomeo, on August 24th, is an opportunity to attend boat races, artistic shows and fireworks. Among typical products, famous organic lentils from Ustica, included in Slow Food list among endangered products.