A 32-acre private island off the coast of Sicily, known as Isola delle Femmine or the Island of the Women, has been placed on the market for €1.65 million (approximately $1.78 million USD).
Located less than 20 kilometers from Palermo, the island is steeped in history and local legends. It is said to have connections dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times, with remnants of structures that may originate from the Middle Ages, including a well and rainwater basins. A tower, originally built in the 16th century, still stands on the island. According to the listing, this tower suffered significant damage during the Allied landing in Sicily as part of Operation Husky in 1943 and has since fallen into disrepair.
The island's name, Isola delle Femmine, is derived from a legend about 13 Turkish maidens who, after being condemned for serious crimes, were left adrift at sea. They eventually landed on the island and made it their home for seven years.
Previously listed in 2019 for between €2 million and €3 million, the current asking price of €1.65 million represents a notable reduction. The property is being handled by Romolini Immobiliare, an Italian luxury real estate agency affiliated with Christie's International Real Estate.
The island is formally recognized as a Special Area of Conservation by the European Union, and its natural landscape is a key feature. It is home to various flora, including Iris and Romulea flowers, as well as wildlife such as lizards and rare butterfly species. The new owner will have exclusive use of the island's private beaches and docking bay.
Potential buyers have the option to fully rebuild the existing structures. The listing also suggests that funding might be available from the European Union or the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism for cultural and tourism development, provided it aligns with the island's natural conservation status.
The nearest airport is Palermo Falcone-Borsellino, with direct flights from London available. The sale of Isola delle Femmine comes at a time when other private islands are also on the market, including Mali Kosmać in Croatia, listed for €700,000, a price point lower than the average London home.
