I dammusi di Pantelleria

Dammusi are typical constructions of the island of Pantelleria which have a very interesting history and tradition.

Made of local lava stone, they represent an essential part of the island’s landscape and culture; they usually have a cubic or rectangular shape, with thick walls and flat roofs. This design was designed to endure seismic shocks and to maintain a cool environment during the hot summer months, but also to be protected from humidity and winter wind.

In the past, Dammusi were used for residential and agricultural purposes. They were houses for local families, but also places in which farming tools and products were stored. This architectural style has proven to be very adaptable and functional to the island’s needs.

In 2014, UNESCO has recognized the Dammusi of Pantelleria as World’s Heritage. This recognition is due to the fact that they are a unique and sustainable form of architecture that has been maintained throughout the centuries, significantly contributing to the cultural identity of the island.

Fundamental part of the history and culture of the island, today they also represent the most fascinating and authentic form of accommodation for the visitors that long to immerse themselves into the beauty and tradition of Pantelleria.

Dammuso Girasole

Dammuso Girasole (aka Sunflower) is situated in the enchanting contrada of Scauri Alto, not too far from the sea and the amazing thermal waters of Nikà.

Surrounded by scented capers plants, sapling vines, olive trees, almond trees, figs, prickly pears, and mulberry, it is frames by dry stone walls made of obsidian stone.

It is an original Dammuso, meaning that it was built according to the ancient building techniques (with thick walls, over 1 meter), vaulted roofs, and external stone seats (the so-called ducchene).

On the inside, although the fabulous hand-painted majolica in Valenza style dates back to the last century, they are still kept in perfect conditions.

The Dammuso is particularly luminous and welcoming during every season. It presents a very special and discrete corner: the alcova, also known as love nest, in which there is a double bed, to preserve and make this space sacred from the rest of the residence.

Well furnished, with furniture made of solid wood, skillfully created by an expert of this material, the environment becomes harmonic with the architectural style of the structure. However, there is no shortage of comforts: air conditioning, washing machine, refrigerator with freezer, electrical oven, tv, other small electrical appliances and of course wi-fi.

Due to the extraordinary position, you can enjoy a breathtaking view from the terrace and even more from the roofs, from which you can admire the whole contrada Scauri, the sea on the horizon and, during the clearest nights, you can even see the African coasts. The area is rather quiet and silent, especially at night, when the sky is crystal clear, and you can observe the Milky Way.

The Dammuso also offers outdoors spaces:

• Internal parking
• Wide terrace, adequately equipped with tables, chairs, beach chairs, hammocks
• External barbecue
• Outdoor showers
• Possibility of easily access to rooftops to enjoy the panoramic view
• Equipped garden with two hammocks

Home Restaurant La Mannara

There’s someone who turned their own Dammuso into a Home Restaurant, offering exquisite private dinners on the west coast of the island, in contrada Kamma. We are talking about Roberto Culcasi, chef and sommelier, who hosts his guests in his Home Restaurant La Mannara, cooking typical dishes of the island with love and passion.

Promoter of sustainability and genuine cuisine, Roberto proposes only dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients, mostly based on fish and vegetables. For those who are looking for something different and authentic, this is undoubtedly an extraordinary experience. In an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, in which you can feel at home, Roberto will be more than happy to make you discover curiosities about the culture, the food, and the traditions of Pantelleria. An exclusive dinner at sunset, accompanied by excellent wines, to make everything even more memorable and special.