Santo Stefanano di Camastra

While peeking at the little tourist shacks near Mt. Etna Nord; we came across a piece of really striking pottery. The stall owner told us it was from Santo Stefano di Camastra and so we thought before we left visit, we would have to pay a visit to the town.

This town is located in the province of Messina and is a very direct, seaside drive from Taormina. (About 1.5 to 2 hours away). Most of the motorway leading to Santo Stefano is completed except for a small piece. As we made our way into town, I was surprised as we met hardly any tourist, (in the middle of August) and saw only one tour bus. (I have to add we went on a Sunday and all the shops were open.)

This little town along with Caltagirone is a ceramic center in Sicily. What caught my eye the most was the brilliant reds and oranges that are a trademark in this area. The Spanish influence in Sicily can definitely be seen in their pottery. The little pottery “strip” is small and quaint with shops flanking both sides of main avenue. I forget the name but you cannot miss this street, as it is the main one into town and full of wares being displayed on walls and on shelving right on the sidewalk. We walked away with a few gifts and some choice pieces for ourselves.

Note: ***Most of the larger shops took credit cards but the smaller ones did not, there are however, several cash machines located on this street.







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