Patti, Sicily; close to the Greek monuments of Tindari

Visit Patti

The historical town of Patti is situated on the north-eastern coast of Sicily.

Best known for its proximity to the impressive Greek and Roman monuments at Tindari, and for the nearby beaches, the town of Patti itself is not a tourist town but has some sights in its old town at the top of the town.

Explore Patti

Sicily Visitor comment: Patti is not a tourist town but if you are in the area its cathedral and churches have some notable artworks.

The town of Patti winds uphill and at the top of the town is its cathedral and a pleasant square with a statue and nearby park.

Patti cathedral was originally built in the 12th century, but underwent notable transformations in later centuries, especially after the earthquake that hit Sicily in 1693. The cathedral has a roman style decorative entrance, while inside you can see the marble tomb of Adelasia, wife to Count Roger, who died here in Patti in 1118, and some notable 15th-18th century paintings.

As with many Sicilian towns Patti has a number of churches that are interesting both for their architecture and for the notable artworks that they contain.

Of particular importance and interest are the Church of Santa Maria dei Greci (16th-17th century, marble statue of the Madonna); the Church of Saint Nicholas (18th-19th century, with various art works from that period and a 16th century marble tabernacle); and the 15th century Church of Saint Anthony Abbot (home to a 13th century town flag).

Near to the Saint Michele church is the San Michele's door which is one of the ancient gateways into the town and the only remaining part of the old Arganese walls that once protected the town.

In the old centre there is also a Ceramics museum with over 650 ceramic objects on display.

In the lower part of the town close to the sea is the Roman Villa of Patti - the 'Villa Romana di Patti Marina' - which dates from the Imperial Age of Ancient Rome. The villa covered a very substantial area (20,000 sq. metres) and includes several highlights, including the original Roman baths, and a number of impressive floor mosaics featuring both patterns and pictures of animals.

Places to visit nearby

The main reason to be visiting this area is for the lovely Sanctuary of Tindari and the Greek and Roman Ruins that are also at Tindari. These are well worth a visit for interest and the beauty of the site and its a good place to see the unusual spit of sand that sticks out from the coast here.

Nearby Montalbano-Elicona is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Its winding streets lead uphill to a castle built by Frederick II of Swabia.

You can find more local travel ideas in the North Sicily guide,