Tonnara di Marzamemi

Getting married in Marzamemi

Tonnara is one of the most ancient and evocative places in Sicily. Its history – started with the Arab domination – is intertwined with that of the surrounding village: Marzamemi, a characteristic, small fishing borgo famous all over the world.

It is certainly one of the most fascinating Italian venues where to organize a destination wedding, especially if you wish to have an event with a Sicilian touch.

Wedding reception by the sea

The heart of Tonnara is Loggia degli Scieri, where fishing boats were once sheltered before heading out to sea. Opening the majestic wooden door, you will be on the Balata square bathed by the sea, indeed. Loggia is very big, 750 square meters, and consists of large arches made of tuff. This is the ideal space for receptions with many guests and long imperial tables.

You have also the chance to stay overnight at Tonnara. In fact, since the mid-1700s, the complex includes the Palazzo del Principe Villadorata. This is a Baroque style palace – built on two levels – that overlooks the famous Regina Margherita square. Upstairs, the Palace offers 5 rooms (up to 14 beds), as many bathrooms, living room, dining room and kitchen. On the lower floor, instead, there are two large studios with kitchen.

Religious, civil or symbolic ceremony

Tonnara – as well as the nearby beaches – can host religious not-Catholic, civil and symbolic rites. Instead, Catholic weddings can be celebrated in the nearby San Francesco di Paola church. The sea, the streets of the village and Regina Margherita square are undoubtedly the most suitable background for romantic couple pictures.

It would be a shame not to take advantage of the small, but cozy, inner courtyard: ideal for an intimate ceremony or for the cake cutting moment, for example. Instead, on the large terrace – located on the first floor of the Palace – could be set up an aperitif: the view of all Marzamemi is speechless!

Get inspired by John & Carmen romantic elopement!

Details

Capacity: up to 500 guests
Ceremony: civil, religious not-Catholic and symbolic
Accommodation: 7 rooms, up to 18 beds
In-house caterer: not available
Distance from popular cities: Noto – 30 minutes, Siracusa – 30 minutes, Catania aeroporto Fontanarossa – 1.20h
Restrictions: party allowed until the timing agreed