The island of Ustica is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea off Palermo. Its name derives from ustum, the Latin for "burnt", an ancient reference to its volcanic origin. The Greeks, meanwhile, called it Osteodes, or "island of bones” because of the mutinous Carthaginian mercenaries who were deported here and died of hunger and thirst.
In 1759 Ferdinand Bourbon began colonising the island. Two watch towers were built, which today house the archaeological museum and the marine reserve.The latter, situated on the promontory of Punta Spalmatore, was restored in 1996.
Ustica is famous for its transparent sea, jagged coastline and caves. Picturesque sites include: cala Sidoti, the lighthouse and the observatory which provides view of the entire island.
Sicilia Film Commission
Via Emanuele Notarbartolo 9 — 90141 Palermo
Phone: +39 091 7078008; +39 091 7078264; +39 091 7078133; +39 091 7078145
Email: filmcommission@regione.sicilia.it
