Perhaps one of the most iconic places in the entire series, Punta Secca is the seaside village where Montalbano’s famous house is located. The inspector’s house is right on the beach, and its balcony overlooking the sea is one of the most recognizable symbols of the series. Visitors to Punta Secca can stroll along the beach and almost magically feel the atmosphere of the mysteries solved by the inspector.
Scicli, another baroque jewel, is one of the most famous locations in the series. In this municipality of Ragusa province is the police station where Montalbano works, which is actually the town hall of Scicli. The main square of the city, with its stunning architecture, is the starting point for many of the inspector’s investigations. The nearby churches, historical buildings, and narrow streets complete the perfect atmosphere for Camilleri’s stories. In the seaside part of Scicli, that is in Sampieri, you can also see the Fornace Penna, known as “La Mannera” in the stories of the Inspector… And in Sampieri you can stay in the fantastic Pietra d’Acqua Spa Resort, to leave recharged by the atmosphere of the resort.
Ragusa Ibla, one of the historic districts of the city of Ragusa, is the beating heart of Montalbano’s adventures. Its baroque architecture and narrow cobblestone streets provide the perfect setting for the inspector’s investigations. Some of the most iconic scenes were filmed here, such as those in front of the “Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista” or in the alleys Montalbano walks through while trying to solve his cases.
The beach of Marina di Ragusa is another place that helped make the series famous. The promenade, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear sea often feature in scenes where Montalbano reflects on the case or relaxes after an intense day. The contrast between the tranquility of the sea and the tension of the investigations creates a unique dimension for the viewer.
Modica, another gem of the Val di Noto, is famous for its baroque architecture and chocolate tradition. The historic center of the city, with its staircases and imposing churches, is the ideal stage for Montalbano’s investigations. Some episodes of the series were filmed right here, and the city, with its intimate and mysterious atmosphere, seems almost tailor-made to serve as the backdrop for a thriller.
Cava d’Ispica is a location that evokes the oldest Sicily. Located between Modica and Ispica, this valley carved into the rock is an enchanting corner of unspoiled nature and breathtaking landscapes. The Cava was used in several scenes of the series, where its primitive and wild atmosphere perfectly blends with the investigations and mysteries solved by Montalbano. It’s an ideal area for archaeology enthusiasts and those seeking lush and evocative nature.
Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a city that represents the pinnacle of Sicilian baroque beauty. Its monumental palaces and churches appeared in several episodes of the series, adding an extra layer of visual charm to the world of Inspector Montalbano. The “Piazza del Municipio” and the “Cathedral of San Nicolò” are among the most representative places of this town, which seems almost straight out of a painting.
Every corner of Sicily seems to breathe the spirit of Montalbano, a inspector who, despite solving criminal cases, never loses touch with the beauty and culture of his land. The Sicilian locations described in this blog have become a true “character” in the series, contributing to making each investigation a journey through the history, traditions, and scenic wonders of the island.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a tour of his favorite locations. It will be like stepping into an episode of the series and experiencing Sicily through Montalbano’s eyes. Geotravel, the Sicilian tour operator that aims to make your experience unforgettable, will expertly guide you through these locations, captivating you with the stories behind these wonders.
