Scopello

Scopello is a small seaside village located in the province of Trapani, Sicily, Italy. It is part of the comune (municipality) of Castellammare del Golfo. The village is known for its picturesque tonnara (tuna fishery), its stunning coastline with sea stacks (faraglioni), and its proximity to the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

The tonnara of Scopello dates back to the 13th century and was one of the most important tuna fisheries in Sicily. It is now a popular tourist attraction. The surrounding coastline is characterized by dramatic cliffs and the iconic faraglioni, large rock formations rising out of the sea.

Scopello serves as a gateway to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a protected coastal area with hiking trails, secluded coves, and diverse flora and fauna. The village itself offers a handful of restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to tourists, particularly during the summer months.

The name "Scopello" likely derives from the Greek word "skopelos," meaning "rock" or "reef," referring to the rocky coastline. The village’s history is intertwined with the history of tuna fishing in the region, and it has evolved from a working fishing village to a popular tourist destination.