Tonnara of Scopello

Tonnara di Scopello is an almadraba in Scopello, part of Castellammare del Golfo in Italy, consisting of stone structures, two coastal towers, and mooring points. The site sits on limestone cliffs above the water, with three prominent rock formations offshore and an open courtyard where boats and gear were once stored.

The facility began in the 13th century as a small fishing station and grew under several owners, including the San Clemente family, the Jesuits, and later the Florio family. Operations ended in the 1980s after centuries of tuna fishing off this coast.

The name tonnara derives from the local dialect and describes the complex system of anchored nets used to channel tuna toward the shore each spring. Fishermen once worked together during the seasonal catch, following a ritual that brought entire families to the courtyard when boats returned with their haul.

Visitors can tour the grounds daily until 7 PM; admission covers the courtyard, the display of old anchors, and access to the bay for swimming. Paths cross uneven stone, so sturdy footwear and care when descending to the water are advised.

At 18 meters depth on the seabed lies an underwater archaeological museum with Greek and Roman amphorae among seagrass meadows. Divers can view the artifacts in their original location, where they rested in the sand for centuries.