Fornace Penna La Mannara
Iconic industrial ruins of Fornace Penna, famously known as 'La Mannara' from Inspector Montalbano, set against stunning Sicilian coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Fornace Penna La Mannara
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic industrial ruins of Fornace Penna, famously known as 'La Mannara' from Inspector Montalbano, set against stunning Sicilian coastal views.
"An interesting piece of industrial heritage overlooking some splendid sea views. A must visit for all Montalbano fans."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The panoramic view at sunset is breathtaking and a highlight for many visitors. :camerawithflash:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain around the ruins can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mannara of Montalbano
Sampieri
The iconic industrial ruins, instantly recognizable as the 'Mannara' from the beloved Montalbano series.
+1
Panoramic Sunset Views
Overlooking the sea
Witness a breathtaking sunset casting a warm glow over the ruins and the Mediterranean Sea.
Pisciotto Beach and Dunes
Adjacent to Fornace Penna
Explore the wild, undeveloped beach and sand dunes that stretch along the coast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Montalbano Magic
History and Coastal Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The panoramic view at sunset is breathtaking and a highlight for many visitors. :camerawithflash:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain around the ruins can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities nearby, so pack essentials for your visit.
🚗 Parking Available
Parking is generally available near the site, especially outside peak hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The panoramic view at sunset is breathtaking and a highlight for many visitors. :camerawithflash:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain around the ruins can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities nearby, so pack essentials for your visit.
🚗 Parking Available
Parking is generally available near the site, especially outside peak hours.
🕵️♂️ Montalbano Fan Must-See
Recognize this iconic filming location from the popular Inspector Montalbano series.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fornace Penna to be an interesting historical site with a mysterious past, offering splendid sea views and a unique atmosphere. It's a must-visit for Montalbano fans, though the undeveloped nature means visitors should come prepared with essentials. The surrounding beach and dunes add to its wild charm.
"An interesting piece of industrial heritage overlooking some splendid sea views. A must visit for all Montalbano fans as it was filmed as the notorious 'mannara'."
Richard Zahra
"Spooky place. Great beach and dunes nearby. One of the places of Montalbano"
Matti
"The Penna Furnace was built between 1909 and 1912. The site of "Punta Pisciotto" was chosen for several reasons: the sufficiently deep seabed for ship docking, the presence of a nearby railway, a clay quarry about 200 meters away for raw materials, and ample water availability from a local karstic spring. The facility produced bricks, exported to many Mediterranean countries. Operations ran from sunrise to dusk, May to September, and ceased with the onset of rain. The furnace's activity ceased on the night of January 26, 1924, due to an arson that destroyed it within hours. A discarded letter attributed the act to socialists."
Maurizio Muratore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fornace Penna is located between Scicli and Sampieri in Sicily. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with exploring the charming town of Scicli.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark on the coast. Look for the distinctive industrial ruins overlooking the sea. It's often referred to as 'La Mannara' in local contexts.
Public transport options might be limited, making a car the most convenient way to reach Fornace Penna. Check local bus schedules if relying on public transport.
Many visitors enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, stopping at Fornace Penna and the nearby Pisciotto beach. It's also part of a walking route.
Fornace Penna is near the beautiful town of Scicli and the seaside village of Sampieri, both worth exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fornace Penna is an open-air site and generally free to visit. There are no official ticket booths or entry fees.
As an abandoned industrial site, there are no set opening hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee to explore the grounds of Fornace Penna. It's a historical site open to the public.
While you can explore the exterior and surrounding areas, caution is advised when approaching the ruins themselves due to their age and condition.
While official guided tours might not be common, local guides or tourist information centers in Scicli may offer insights or tours that include Fornace Penna.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the atmospheric industrial ruins, enjoy the stunning sea views, walk along the adjacent Pisciotto beach, and capture memorable photos, especially at sunset.
Families can enjoy the beach and the unique historical site. However, supervise children closely due to the uneven terrain and the nature of the ruins.
Late afternoon leading up to sunset offers the most dramatic light and beautiful views. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds.
No, there are no facilities such as restrooms, cafes, or shops directly at the site. It's a wild, undeveloped area.
Built between 1909-1912, it was a major brick and tile factory. Operations ceased after a mysterious arson in 1924, leading to its abandonment.
📸 📸 Photography
The ruins themselves offer dramatic architectural shots. The beach and dunes provide a natural contrast, and the sunset views are unparalleled.
Absolutely! The golden hour light illuminating the ruins and the sea makes it a prime location for stunning sunset photography.
Industrial heritage, landscape, and architectural photography are popular. Many also capture the 'Montalbano' connection.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local aviation authorities and be mindful of any restrictions before flying a drone.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides the most beautiful light. Midday can be harsh.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕵️♂️ Montalbano Enthusiasts
+2📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Fornace Penna: From Industry to Icon
However, the factory's promising future was tragically cut short. On the night of January 26, 1924, a devastating arson attack engulfed the facility in flames, destroying it within hours. The motive behind this act remains somewhat mysterious, with some accounts attributing it to social or political unrest aimed at halting industrialization. This event led to the factory's permanent closure and subsequent abandonment, leaving behind the evocative ruins we see today.
This rich history, coupled with its dramatic destruction, has cemented Fornace Penna's place in local lore and popular culture. Its transformation into 'La Mannara' in the Inspector Montalbano series has further amplified its fame, drawing visitors eager to connect with the setting of their favorite crime dramas. The juxtaposition of industrial decay and the natural beauty of the Sicilian coast creates a unique and compelling atmosphere.
+2Experiencing the 'Mannara' and Coastal Beauty
+2Beyond its Montalbano fame, Fornace Penna offers a stunning natural setting. The ruins overlook the beautiful Pisciotto beach, a stretch of golden sand characterized by wild dunes. This undeveloped coastline provides a sense of authentic, untamed Sicily. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, enjoying the sea breeze, and appreciating the raw beauty of the Mediterranean landscape.
The combination of historical industrial ruins and pristine natural beauty makes Fornace Penna a unique destination. The best time to visit is often cited as late afternoon, as the setting sun casts a warm, dramatic light over the scene, creating unforgettable photographic opportunities. Be prepared for a rustic experience, as there are no facilities, but the visual rewards are immense.
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