Discover Tusa

Tusa combines unusual works of art, medieval local history, ancient traces and an important natural area. Those looking for accommodation in Tusa will therefore find a place whose character cannot be reduced to a single experience: Between the banks of the Tusa River, the historic centre and the remains of Halaesa Arconidea, there are very different themes to explore together.

Open-air art and striking forms

One particularly distinctive way to experience the surroundings is Fiumara d’Arte. The open-air museum consists of sculptures and land-art installations along the banks of the Tusa River, including within the municipality of Tusa. Here, art does not appear as a collection in enclosed spaces, but as a connection between works and landscape.

One of the striking works is La materia poteva non esserci by Pietro Consagra. The reinforced-concrete sculpture is 18 metres high and consists of two parallel forms, one white and one black. La Piramide del 38° Parallelo has a different character: Mauro Staccioli created the work in 1981; it is approximately 30 metres high, located on the 38th parallel north, and represents a message of peace and reconciliation. The hollow tetrahedron made of weathering steel makes this idea visible as a clear, widely recognisable form.

Medieval centre and ancient history

In its historic centre, Tusa preserves the character of a typical medieval citadel. The narrow alleyways and religious buildings are particularly defining features. The Chiesa Madre di Tusa was rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake and dedicated to Maria Santissima Assunta. The Li Volsi family, which came from Tusa and included sculptors, woodcarvers and stucco artists, also represents an important part of the local art history.

The ancient city of Halaesa Arconidea was founded by Archonides in 403 BC. A thermal complex covering approximately 800 square metres was also excavated in Halaesa Arconidea. The history of the place therefore extends far beyond the medieval appearance of the centre and offers another perspective on Sicily’s past.

Natural area and excursion destination

Bosco Tardara provides a natural contrast to the sculptures and historic buildings. It is a Natura 2000 site of community importance, designated SIC ITA020018, within the municipality of Tusa. At the same time, Bosco Tardara in Tusa is considered a natural area of great interest and a destination for excursions.

Planning your stay

The choice of a hotel in Tusa can therefore be considered according to the desired pace of your stay: The historic centre represents narrow alleyways, religious buildings and the history of the Li Volsi family; Halaesa Arconidea leads to ancient traces; Fiumara d’Arte and its striking works add a modern artistic accent; Bosco Tardara complements these themes with nature and excursions. For the journey, regional Trenitalia trains connect Palermo with Tusa directly or with one change.

Other places for orientation

For further searches within this area, you can also find Acquacalda, Ginostra, Acquedolci, Rodia, Alcara Li Fusi, Sorrentini, San Marco D'alunzio and Rometta.

For the higher-level travel overview: Messina.