Sciara Biscari lighthouse

Faro Sciara Biscari is a white, cylindrical lighthouse standing on Via Domenico Tempio in Catania, on Sicily's eastern coast, close to the city's harbour.

What is this place?

The tower rises 28 metres, with its light positioned 31 metres above sea level. The current structure dates from 1951, built after an earlier tower from 1896 was demolished. The name "Sciara Biscari" refers to the rocky, lava-covered ground typical of this stretch of Catania's coastline — "sciara" is a Sicilian word for a field of hardened lava, a legacy of the many Etna eruptions that have shaped the city's shoreline over the centuries.

The lighthouse uses a rotating optical system with a halogen lamp reaching 22 nautical miles (over 40 kilometres), backed by a reserve lamp with a range of 10 nautical miles (about 20 kilometres). Since 1951 it has guided sailors with a light flash every five seconds, serving as a key landmark for ships entering the port of Catania.

The site has been formally recognised as a cultural heritage asset, with Sicily's regional department for cultural heritage acknowledging its identity, architectural and urban planning value.

How do you get there?

The lighthouse sits on Via Domenico Tempio, in the harbour area of Catania, not far from the historic city centre. It's an easy stop to combine with a visit to Catania's baroque old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a walk along the port.

What will you see?

The lighthouse is not normally open to the public — it's an active facility managed by the Italian Navy. On special occasions, such as the National Day of the Sea, it opens its doors to visitors. On those days you can climb roughly a hundred steps to the top of the tower and take in views of Catania, the harbour and the lava-shaped coastline from the lantern room.

Even without going inside, the white tower's silhouette against the sea and the harbour docks makes for a striking sight in this part of the city.

When should you visit?

The best chance to see the inside of the lighthouse is during events organised by the Italian Navy, such as the National Day of the Sea — one of the few times each year the site opens to residents and visitors. Outside these occasions, the lighthouse can be admired from the outside year-round, with early morning or late afternoon offering calmer light for photos against the harbour backdrop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside the Sciara Biscari lighthouse? Not normally — it's an active Italian Navy facility. The interior opens occasionally, for example during the National Day of the Sea.

Where does the name "Sciara Biscari" come from? "Sciara" is a Sicilian term for a field of hardened volcanic lava, and the name refers to the rocky, lava-covered ground in this part of Catania's coast, shaped by Etna's eruptions.

How tall is the lighthouse? The tower stands 28 metres high, with its light positioned 31 metres above sea level.

Is it an important navigation point? Yes — the lighthouse has operated since 1951, guiding ships into Catania's port with a light flash every five seconds and a range of up to 22 nautical miles.