Campobello Di Mazara – between culture and coast

Campobello Di Mazara lies on a plain 100 metres above sea level. The predominantly agricultural landscape includes extensive fields with centuries-old olive trees, as well as vineyards, citrus groves and almond orchards. At the same time, cultural sites and Tre Fontane beach offer possible focal points for a trip.

Ancient stoneworking and rural history

Cave di Cusa supplied the large capitals and columns for Temple G. The quarry was in use from the 6th century BC until the end of the Greek city; the Punic conquest brought stone extraction to an abrupt halt. Its exceptional state of preservation makes it possible to study every stage of ancient stoneworking. Here, the focus is both on the connection to a specific temple construction project and on the individual stages of the work.

The collection at the Museo della Civiltà Contadina offers a different perspective on local history. It includes objects from local trades such as fishing, carpentry, blacksmithing and rope-making. The museum is located in Baglio Florio, in Contrada Cave di Cusa in Campobello Di Mazara. Until the end of the 19th century, agricultural labourers lived in the Baglio and worked the surrounding estate year-round or seasonally. The collection and the history of the Baglio thus offer insight into various aspects of rural work.

Buildings and their history

The Chiesa di Santa Maria al Presepe is a neoclassical basilica with three naves and a rectangular apse with a shell-shaped vault. The church houses a carved crucifix by Frate Umile da Petralia (1580–1639), which was donated to the town. The three naves divide the church interior, while the apse forms its architectural end.

The Torre dell’Orologio combines classical Renaissance influences with Sicilian-Norman architecture. Construction began in 1858, and the exterior decoration was completed in 1877. The two dates refer to different stages: the start of construction and the later completion of the exterior design.

The Torre di Tre Fontane is also part of the history of coastal defence: until the 19th century, it formed part of Sicily’s defence and observation system. Today, it is inaccessible and partially collapsed. If you are interested in the towers as historical sites, this distinction is important for planning your visit: the Torre di Tre Fontane is currently inaccessible.

Tre Fontane, olives and getting there

Tre Fontane beach stretches for more than six kilometres. A description from 2023 characterises the water as clean, clear and shallow, and considers the beach suitable for families with children. Water conditions can vary seasonally. The Bandiera Verde award was held from 2013 to 2023; this date range clearly places the award in the past.

Nocellara del Belìce DOP is also part of the area’s local character. The second edition of the Nocellara Expo in Campobello Di Mazara promoted protected products in 2024, including olive oil and table olives; 22 olive oil and table olive producers took part. It is also worth noting that Campobello Di Mazara is connected to a network of roads and motorways.

Discover more destinations: Parrinello, Favignana, Custonaci, Selinunte, Macari Di San Vito Lo Capo, Baglio Todaro, Valderice, Tonnarella

For the broader travel overview: Trapani.