Located in the picturesque lands of Patti, this village is home to one of the most revered Sanctuaries in Sicily, a constant destination for pilgrimages, especially during the celebration of the Madonna Bruna (September 7 and 8). Tindari is also renowned as one of Sicily’s major archaeological sites, part of the Tindari Archaeological Park, which includes 11 other sites along the northeastern coast of the island.
Art, worship, devotion and nature
The Sanctuary of the Black Madonna dominates the promontory, built on the ruins of the ancient Acropolis. Reconstructed in the 16th century after being destroyed by pirates, the Basilica features a majestic Christian cross structure with large stained-glass windows that enhance the decorated figures. The famous wooden statue of the Black Madonna is the object of a cult born from a legend tied to the iconoclastic persecution and its accidental discovery on the beach.
Beyond the Sanctuary, a journey through Tindari reveals its archaeological history. Founded in the 4th century BC by Dionysius the Elder, ancient Tyndaris offers ancient walls, a Roman insula with mosaic floors, and two well-preserved houses. The highlight is the Greek-Roman theatre (3rd-2nd century BC), surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and offering breathtaking views of the Aeolian Islands and Capo Milazzo. Its stands are still used for cultural events and summer performances.
For adventure lovers, Tindari offers the opportunity to go paragliding from the eastern slope of the promontory. The Marinello Lakes Nature Reserve, with its wide beach and brackish lagoons, is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and lovers of unspoiled nature.
The panoramic Coda di Volpe trekking trail, which connects the Marinello lagoon to the Sanctuary, offers spectacular views from the Patti Bay to the Aeolian Islands and Capo Milazzo. The Reserve also includes the fascinating Mongiove caves, with sea stacks, hidden coves, and an exclusive beach.
During the summer, the fishing village near Monte Giove attracts tourists seeking tranquillity, crystal-clear seas, and good food. Tindari is also an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding areas, such as Capo d’Orlando, Milazzo, and the captivating Aeolian Islands. A journey that offers the chance to leave the sea behind and explore equally enchanting alternative itineraries.