As we continued to explore, we came upon one of the old city gates, the Porta Palermo.

Palazzo Steripinto is one of the oldest buildings, still standing in the city today.  It dates from 1501, and was built by Antonio Noceto, grandson of the famous Italian botanist, Gerardo Noceto.

The former Monastero Santa Maria dello Spasimo was founded in 1532, when the property was donated by Donna Antonella Beagna and her nephews, to the nuns of the Order of Santa Caterina da Siena.  In 1866, when religious orders were suppressed, the monastery was turned into a housing complex.  The church, as we see it today, dates from 1856, even though it was initially built at the same time as the monastery.

The former Chiesa Santa Maria del Gesù o della Visitazione is now home to what looks like apartments, and you will even find a pizzeria, on the ground floor.

On a street leading down to the port area, you will find the Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Itria.

We made our way back to the apartment, and packed our bags, as we were heading to our next destination the following morning.  We then headed out for one last dinner in Sciacca.  The restaurant we chose was the Antica Osteria della Vittoria, which we had read wonderful things about.  We dined on delicious fresh fish, and a bottle of local wine.  It was a perfect way to end our stay, in this lovely city!

The restaurant served the entrées with a bowl of sauce, which one could drizzle over the grilled fish.  It was made up of olive oil, parsley, hot peppers, garlic, and other herbs.  It was absolutely heavenly!

 

Next up: We head to the mountain top village of Erice!

 

Note: This blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations that may appear.  If you have enjoyed this post, please, check out our archives for more posts from Sciacca, as well as other Italian destinations.  Grazie!