Scala dei Turchi or Stairs of the Turks is a rocky white cliff on the coast of Realmonte, located near Porto Empedocle in southern Sicily. Due to thousands of years of erosion, the cliff has been transformed into large stairs, perfect for sunbathing.
The name came from the coast being invaded many times by Moors and Turkish pirates. The Stairs of the Turks were formed by marl, a white sedimentary rock, similar to limestone. It is conveniently located between two sandy beaches.
In the summer, the Scala is very popular and frequently overcrowded, but if you're into swimming and sunbathing, this is the best time. May and September are considered two of the best months to enjoy its beautiful views and warm waters of the Mediterranean, less hot and crowded than summer months from June to August. Summer visitors should come early to avoid the heat and tourists. Hike one of the sandy trails down to the beach and apply some of the white marl on your body—it supposedly contains many benefits for the skin. But local tourism authorities emphasize that the marl has no therapeutic qualities, thus they strongly discourage visitors to apply it to their skin. This is also one of the best places to catch a stunning sunset.
On the other hand, in case your main priority is landscape itself rather than a beach holiday, you could easily opt for the winter season and enjoy the views without tourist crowds.
Scala dei Turchi was featured in Andrea Camilleri's series of detective stories about Commissario Montalbano. When visiting the Turkish Steps, you might also include the Archaeological Area of Agrigento in your itinerary, a former Greek colony that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Practical info
When is the optimal period to travel to Scala dei Turchi, and why?
Scala dei Turchi is most popular from May to September due to the warm Mediterranean waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing. May and September are considered less crowded months, and the weather is suitable, not too hot. So it's a comfortable time to enjoy various outdoor activities and capture breathtaking views of scenic spots, cliffs and beaches, and the distinct turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Show more
What is the location of Scala dei Turchi, and how can you reach it?
Scala dei Turchi is in the southern Sicilian town of Realmonte, along the SS115 main road. To reach the airport from Agrigento or Porto Empedocle, visitors can take a bus or rent a car. When driving from Agrigento, it takes around 20 minutes to get to Scala dei Turchi, and there is parking available. Alternative to getting there without a car, travelers can opt for guided tours from tourism companies, including the Stairs of the Turks. Show more
What is the origin of the name of the Scala dei Turchi?
Scala dei Turchi's name was inspired by the 16th-century Turkish and Moorish invasions of southern Sicily. The name stems from the chalk slopes that provided great defensive cover for the invaders to take refuge, especially near the coast, making it challenging for defenders to capture them. Today, the name remains as an acknowledgment of the location's history as a strategic site vital to the island's culture and heritage. Show more
What benefits does white marl offer for the body, and where can it be found?
Although there is a claim by the locals that white marl has therapeutic benefits for the skin, tourism officials advise visitors not to use it since there is no scientific backing for its efficacy. Despite this, many tourists continue to enjoy covering their skin in white marl. It's easily accessible along Scala dei Turchi; however, this is strongly discouraged by environmentalists and healthcare officials for both hygienic and environmental reasons. Show more
What other tourist attractions could be added to the Scala dei Turchi itinerary?
When visiting Scala dei Turchi, an ideal complement is Agrigento's Archaeological Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This former Greek settlement comprises numerous ancient landmarks and buildings, including eight temples in the Valley of the Temples. The town of Porto Empedocle is renowned for its literary roots having been the birthplace of the celebrated author, Andrea Camilleri. There are numerous literary landmarks and significant historic monuments to visit and enjoy. Show more
