Borgo Parrini Destination in Sicily · Province of Palermo

Borgo Parrini is a small village near Partinico in the Province of Palermo, about 30 kilometers west of Palermo. A former farming hamlet, it has been restored over recent decades and turned into an artists' village whose colorful facades and mosaic decorations take their cue from the buildings of Antoni Gaudí.

From farming hamlet to artists' village

For a long time Borgo Parrini was a small rural settlement in northern Sicily. The restoration of the past decades gave it a new look, modeled on the work of the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí: curved shapes, strong colors and surfaces covered in pieces of colored stone and tile.

What to see in Borgo Parrini

You see the village best on foot. The alleys are narrow, flowers line the walls, and almost every facade has its own color or ornament.

• Facades and mosaics: brightly painted walls with mosaic-like decoration and plenty of artistic detail
• Boutiques: small shops selling handmade souvenirs
• Food and drink: cafés and restaurants serving traditional Sicilian cuisine
• Photo spots: around almost every corner, from whole rows of houses to single mosaic details

After the walk, a glass of wine on one of the sunny piazzas is a good way to watch the colors change as the light moves.

Location and getting there

Borgo Parrini lies close to Partinico and is easiest to reach by car. From Palermo, take the A29 freeway toward Mazara del Vallo, leave at the Partinico exit and drive about 5 kilometers to the village. Coming from Trapani, follow the A29 toward Palermo and use the same exit. Without a car, take the train from Palermo to Partinico and continue by taxi or local bus. Parking is available near the village.

When to go

A visit here happens almost entirely outdoors. On the north coast near Palermo, average daytime highs are around 19 C (66 F) in April, 23 C (73 F) in May, 27 C (81 F) in September and 23 C (73 F) in October. In July and August they climb to about 30 C (86 F). Spring and fall are the more comfortable seasons for walking the alleys; in midsummer, mornings and early evenings work best.

Who Borgo Parrini suits

The village is small and works well as a stop of a few hours rather than a base. It appeals most to travelers interested in architecture and design, and to anyone who likes to photograph. Because it sits close to the A29, it combines easily with a day in Palermo or fits into the drive between Palermo and Trapani.