Catania Fish Market – Pescheria – Folklore at Work

The Pescheria in Catania, the fish market, which takes place every day Monday through Saturday, is one of the daytime attractions and is frequented by regular locals and also by so many visiting the city. A visit to the market is an experience in Sicilian folklore. There are vendors promoting their products and trying to get the attention of anyone passing by and there are people just hanging around watching. Many local people have their own vendors they trust and buy their fish from and a newcomer should best shop around.

Fountain at the main entrance to the market coming from Piazza Duomo

At one point, I saw these people watching from above and wandered what was happening. I soon realized they were just hanging out watching the people interacting in the market.

Following is a picture of “telline” that are found in the Ionian sea close to Catania. Cooked with fresh tomatoes they make great condiment for spaghetti.

Sardines are shown here ready to be stuffed for the typical Sicilian dish “beccafico”.

Fresh tuna……………..

As I left the market behind and crossed the Duomo Square, I noticed this young tourist riding his bike and just wondered where he had ridden his bike from. He seemed to me as one from northern Europe!