If you’re ever in Sicily, at the top of Castelmola in the hidden romantic town of Taormina, known for its turquoise beaches, quaint shops, and views of Mount Etna, is a curious restaurant known as Bar Turrisi.
Inside, guests are struck by the statues, candle holders, & centerpieces that are shaped like … male genitalia.
The bar, famous for its almond wine, was passed down thru generations to Peppino, who decided to refurbish the bar with his wife, in 1975.
Having no real defining characteristic, the couple thought of what represented them most– their five sons– and so, just like that, the penis became the defining symbol of Bar Turrisi.
At first, many of the people in town disapproved of the phallic décor. (Wouldn’t bottles of that liquor make the perfect souvenirs?) But as time passed and more travelers came to see the “strangest bar in the world,” it became a famous landmark.
The symbolism of the penis together with art of nude men, and classic Sicilian crafts, actually became a unique and positive representation of local culture.
It’s quite a cozy and colorful place with some cool stuff to take back home.
Check out the chairs.
The stairs.
They’re everywhere.
The bar serves food and drinks daily, and is especially popular in the summer with their excellent view of the sea.
https://www.turrisibar.it/