Mazara

Mazara del Vallo, commonly referred to as Mazara, is a coastal town and comune in the province of Trapani, Sicily, Italy. It lies on the southwestern coast of Sicily along the Mediterranean Sea, near the mouth of the Mazaro River. With a population of around 50,000, it is a major center in the province and a longstanding fishing port.

The town has ancient origins and a distinctive Arab-Norman legacy from medieval times. The historic center preserves elements of the Arab-period urban fabric, notably the Kasbah, a former Islamic quarter with narrow streets and traditional houses. The area is a focal point for cultural heritage and local life.

Mazara is known for its fishing industry; the port supports one of Italy’s largest fishing fleets and a substantial tuna-fishing sector. The maritime economy underpins seafood processing, trade, and related services, and the waterfront is a focus for tourism.

In archaeology and art, Mazara is famous for the Dancing Satyr, a 5th-century BC bronze statue discovered in 1958 near the Mazaro river. It is among Sicily’s finest ancient sculptures and is housed in the Antonino Salinas Regional Archaeological Museum in Palermo.

Tourism highlights include the Kasbah quarter, coastal promenades, and the city’s seafood cuisine. Mazara is accessible by road and rail, with the nearest major airports in Palermo and Trapani.