Fornace Penna

The Fornace Penna, located in the hamlet of Sampieri in the municipality of Scicli, is a significant historical industrial site completed in 1912 in Contrada Pisciotto. Designed for the production of bricks and tiles, it was a cornerstone of the local ceramic industry and played a crucial role in the economic development of the Iblean area in the early 20th century. In 1926, the factory was severely damaged by an arson fire, the causes of which remain shrouded in mystery, and its production activities were compromised. Despite this, the complex has retained its grandeur thanks to its rationalist industrial architecture, featuring tall chimneys, masonry structures, and functional spaces that reflect its historical and technical value. Today, the Fornace Penna is promoted as a cultural and tourist site, hosting events, exhibitions, and initiatives that celebrate the industrial and traditional heritage of Sampieri and the surrounding area, acting as a bridge between past and present.