Travel Photo Friday: Catania Fish Market

October 2, 2009

A very lively spot in the heart of Catania, Sicily. Although not nearly as large as the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo, the Catania fish market is a full sensory experience...the tell-tale smells hit you before turning the corner, the lively banter between fishermen and shoppers, the colorful assortment, and even the mucky reminder not to wear open toed sandals. I recently read that some changes (related to licensing and health codes) were happening at the market and was curious to see the impact of those changes. There was one area that seemed a little more empty than before, but I was very relieved to see that overall it is still full of life and character. While wandering through the market yesterday, I was reminded of a great podcast on Amateur Travel (thanks, Emily). Madeline's description of Sicily as a place of raw intensity and authenticty seemed very fitting for the fish market. Have I mentioned yet that Sicily has some of the most amazing seafood we have ever eaten?

More Travel Pics here.
Melissa said...

Amazing pictures, Lucia. I can almost smell the air... :-)

jessiev said...

very, very cool. i love the snails photo. i always head to local markets - it is the best color around!

likeschocolate said...

I love the poster in the background that says Basta which I think means enough, but since I don't know much other Italien I am not sure what the rest of the poster says.

Glennia/ The Silent I said...

Wonderful photos! We went to Sicily a few years ago, and loved it. You really captured the essence of it in these few photos. Gorgeous!

Unknown said...

It all looks like hype and a good way to capture the life of Sicily. Did you buy any fish there or just wandered around?

Angela K. Nickerson said...

I love a good fish market! I'm headed to Venice in a few weeks, and you can bet I'll be there bright and early to snap photos of those gorgeous fish. Great photos! :)

Wanderluster said...

I love the top photo of the fish. While I can't say I'm actually drawn to fish markets - they certainly are filled with interesting sights (and smells!).

Sarah V. said...

Great photos! I especially like the third one.

Francesca said...

Wonderful photos and post.

Lorraine Akemann said...

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could convert strip malls into bright, sociable, delicious markets? Thanks for highlighting Sicily, we've been thinking about heading there and this gives me some data. :)

Madeline said...

Love the photo with the Basta!Basta! posters. Obviously they are political posters but of course eating in Italy is always a game where people try to give you more food and you counter with Basta! Basta! in the nicest way possible :o)

And good point about the open-toed shoes.

Thanks for the shout out to the podcast. Talking to Chris about Sicily was a lot of fun.

Dominique said...

I can tell I'd love this place...as much as I love any kind of seafood!

Peter West Carey said...

Nice set of photos. I can smell it without having to be there! :)

Laurie said...

That made me smile - I went to the fish market in Catania, too! :-) Miss you...

jade said...

Little towels to wipe our hands. They expand when water is poured on them. vacation deals

Traci said...

It's been many years, but this picture and description brings it all right back!! The Fish Market in Catania is something you just have to experience! And the fish is fresh, caught that same morning. Just reminiscing a photo of myself at the Fish Market and I wore all white...what was I thinking!!?

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