Punta Secca, or Sicca in Sicilian, is named after the tiny cluster of rocks off the coast that emerge when the tide is low. The climate is mild and dry.

The village has existed since the Byzantine, Arabic and Norman invasions. During the Arab domination it was called Ayn al-Qasab but later came to be called Ras Karan, Cape Scaramia and finally Cape Scalambri ( the name still used on nautical charts and geography maps) that gives its name to the 16th century Scalambri defense tower. Opposite the tower, in one of its lovely piazzas, is the fictional home of the Chief of Police Montalbano. The lighthouse was built in 1853 and stands 35 metres tall. The Marine Military building is adjacent.

Photos panoramas kindly provided by Peppe Portelli

Where to eat