Pantelleria is a mosaic of hamlets, each with a distinct soul and its own dammusi (traditional stone houses). Many names have Arabic roots, echoing the island’s Islamic past. Here’s a journey through five of Pantelleria’s most captivating hamlets:
1. Khamma
The name Khamma comes from the Arabic hamma, meaning “hot spring” — a nod to the nearby thermal waters of Gadír. This connection is mirrored in Tunisia’s El Hamma, also famous for its healing springs, underscoring the deep cultural ties between Pantelleria and North Africa. Located about 160 meters above sea level, Khamma is home to around 1200 residents. Its central square is marked by the modest yet symbolic Church of San Francesco, and the nearby Circolo Trieste Stella, a beloved social gathering spot. Locals are called Hammióti, keepers of a legacy of fertile soil, hidden springs, and ancient roots.
2. Scauri
The name Scauri may come from Greek, meaning “landing place” — a fitting description for a hamlet historically tied to the sea and maritime trade. Located about 100 meters above sea level, Scauri is one of Pantelleria’s most important settlements, home to around 1000 residents. It’s the only hamlet with all major services, including a cinema, and has recently become a hub of evening life on the island. The small marina, lively with fishing boats and nautical activities, is the beating heart of Scauri. Don’t miss the Parish of San Gaetano da Thiene, centerpiece of the traditional August 7 procession. The Circolo Unione remains a cherished gathering spot for locals. Residents are known as Scavirióti, guardians of a culture steeped in sea breeze, hospitality, and tradition.
3. Tráçino
The name Tracino comes from the Arabic word ṭarf, meaning "point" — a nod to the hamlet’s prominent position overlooking the sea.
Located on the eastern side of the island, Tracino is one of Pantelleria’s main villages, surrounded by fertile countryside cultivated with capers and zibibbo grapes. It also boasts one of the highest concentrations of traditional restaurants, ideal for savoring the island’s authentic flavors.
Historic gathering places include the Khoutek, Vittorio Veneto and Fosso social clubs.
From here, you can easily reach one of the island’s natural icons: the famous Elephant Arch, Pantelleria’s undisputed symbol.
Facing the Sicilian coast, Piazza Perugia is home to the Church of Madonna della Pace, notable for its rare octagonal floor plan.
Locals are known as Traçinióti, proud keepers of this corner’s deep rural and seafaring traditions.
4. Rekhále
The name Raháli comes from the Arabic raḥl (hamlet, encampment) combined with Alì, likely the name of a former landowner.
This agricultural hamlet lies in the southwestern inland of the island and still follows its traditional rural rhythms.
On 19 March, the entire village gathers to celebrate Saint Joseph with a traditional procession winding through its narrow streets.
Locals are known as Rahalióti.
One curious feature not to miss is the stele of Raháli: a small stone sculpture depicting a man and a woman, placed on the roof of an old dammuso. It once served to signal the presence of important guests or notable visitors.
Among the historical social clubs, the most distinctive is La Casineddra, set inside a small dammuso: just one room, so intimate the band would play from a loft, while the bar was reserved for men and the dance floor for women.
5. Sibá
The name Sibá comes from the Arabic ṣabāḥ ("morning") and speaks of a deep bond with the light: here on the western side, at the foot of Montagna Grande, the sun seems to rise from the volcanic ridges, offering a natural spectacle each day.
Sibá is a small mountain community, nestled in a fertile plain. It’s the perfect starting point to purchase local farm products directly from growers or to explore the island’s wild interior, along trails that pass through Montagna Grande, Gelfiser, and Kùddia Randázzo.
It is also home to one of Pantelleria’s most evocative geosites: the Benikulá Dry Bath, a natural cave where thermal steam rises, turning it into an open-air sauna.
Don’t miss the Church of the Madonna del Rosario, the spiritual heart of the hamlet, or a stop at Circolo Cavour, a historic community gathering place.
The residents of Sibá are called Sibarióti.
Take a journey into the most authentic Pantelleria. Discover what it’s like to live in a dammuso, read: The dammuso: discover the origins of Pantelleria’s traditional stone houses