Le Vie dei Tesori is a cultural-project that transforms the whole of Sicily into an open-air museum for a few weeks each year.
Origins and Identity
Born in Palermo in 2006, to celebrate the bicentenary of the University of Palermo, Le Vie dei Tesori (“The Treasure Trails”) began as a local cultural event and soon expanded to include dozens of cities and villages across Sicily.
Today, it is managed by a non-profit Foundation, whose mission is to promote and preserve Sicily’s cultural, artistic, natural, and social heritage.
How It Works
Between September and November, the festival opens to the public hidden or normally inaccessible places — noble palaces, secret courtyards, gardens, churches, crypts, archives, and unusual urban spaces.
But it’s not just about visiting. The festival also offers:
- Guided walks through history and architecture
- Theatrical visits that bring stories to life
- Tastings and local experiences
- Family-friendly activities and educational events
Visitors can buy coupons valid for multiple entries (for example, “4-site” or “10-site” passes), or single tickets for specific experiences.
The 2025 Edition
This year, Le Vie dei Tesori unfolds across Sicily in several stages:
- From September 20 to October 5, the festival takes place in towns such as Alcamo, Bagheria, Messina, Trapani, and Termini Imerese.
- From October 11 to 26, it moves to Sciacca, Marsala, and Corleone, among others.
- In Palermo, the main event runs from October 10 to November 16, featuring 85 exclusive sites, plus guided walks, tastings, and cultural experiences for all ages.
Why It Matters
- Revealing Hidden Heritage – It shines a light on places usually closed or little known, rediscovering Sicily’s forgotten treasures.
- Community Involvement – Citizens, associations, guides, students, and schools actively participate in the storytelling and organization.
- Tourism and Local Impact – The festival attracts thousands of visitors from Italy and abroad, revitalizing historic centers and supporting local economies.
- A “Widespread” Cultural Model – It decentralizes culture, enhancing not only major cities but also small towns and rural villages, restoring cultural dignity across the island.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Check local festival dates for the city or village you plan to visit.
- Book coupons or tickets online in advance — some experiences require reservations.
- Mind the schedules: many sites are open only for limited time slots.
- Don’t miss the extras: tastings, night tours, theatrical visits, or open-air performances.
- Bring a guide or download the official map — it helps you explore Sicily’s open-air museum with ease.




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