La Pescheria: discovering the Catania fish market

One of the cultural treasures of Sicily is its historic markets. Among the most famous of the island, in addition to the Vucciria of Palermo,  is the Pescheria in Catania which, as the name implies, is the city's fish market but, in reality, it is much more: it is a slice of life in Catania. Let us go discover it!

A market or a souk?
The peculiarity of Sicilian markets - and the Catania fish market is no exception - is their resemblance to Arab souks. The Islamic domination, which has left its mark on Sicilian culture, suggests that it is really not just a resemblance. A visit to the fish market is a new experience for the senses. The scent of the day's catch expands in the air, as does the vuciata , the “chorus” of cries of the vendors who draw the attention of the customers to their counter. Thus, this lively market can be considered an open-air folk theater, where you can watch and participate in a show full of authenticity and tradition. Not to be missed!

How to get to the fish market
To get to the Pescheria - or 'a Piscaria , as the Sicilians call it - just head towards the southwest corner of Piazza del Duomo, Catania's main square. Here stands the nineteenth-century fountain of the Amenano, dedicated to the river that flows under the city of Etna. Upon reaching it, the voices of the sellers will lure you and it will be easy to spot the market behind it. The stalls extend over piazza Alonzo di Benedetto and piazza Pardo and into the surrounding streets, going as far as the Porta di Carlo V. The market is held from Monday to Saturday until lunchtime.
Those who love to discover the city markets in Catania, should also visit the Fera 'o Luni which is held every day, except Sunday, in Piazza Carlo Alberto.