Former industrial complex with its four brick chimneys, near the railway station. A fire damaged the auditorium roof area in November 2025, so some spaces may be closed.
Le Ciminiere is a restored former sulphur-works complex at Viale Africa 12 in Catania, Sicily, Italy, close to the railway station and the port. Its name means the chimneys, after the four brick chimneys that remain from the industrial era. The site has been converted into a trade-fair, congress, cinema and arts centre, so it is not a conventional shopping mall: shopping here is event-driven, with exhibitions, craft fairs, antiques and design fairs, and seasonal markets such as a Christmas market held in the halls and courtyards depending on the year's programme. The goods on offer therefore change with each event. Craft and food events typically feature regional producers, ceramics, textiles and Sicilian foods, while trade fairs may be open to professionals only, so visitors should check the programme before travelling. At craft and Christmas markets, a mix of genuine local makers and imported or mass-produced gift items is common, and visitors can judge authenticity by asking about materials and origin. Prices are mostly fixed, though small discounts may be possible on handmade goods at the end of the day. Card payments are increasingly accepted by exhibitors, but cash is still advisable for small stalls, and tax refunds for non-EU residents are only available where a registered retailer issues the correct paperwork. Cafes and refreshment points operate within the complex, and the surrounding station and port area has additional bars and restaurants. The atmosphere varies from calm and spacious on non-event days to very crowded during popular fairs, cinema screenings and concerts. Opening hours depend on events rather than fixed shopping hours. A fire damaged the auditorium roof area in November 2025, so some spaces may be closed, and visitors should confirm the status of the halls and any scheduled event beforehand. The brick architecture and chimneys are of interest to visitors keen on industrial heritage, and the location is easily reached on foot from the railway station or by taxi and local bus.
| Hours | Hours depend on events; check before going |
|---|---|
| Price | $$ |
| Address | Viale Africa 12, 95129 Catania |
Location
Viale Africa 12, 95129 Catania
37.5091, 15.1022 View on map
Highlights
- See the four brick chimneys of the former sulphur works
- Visit seasonal craft, design and Christmas markets when scheduled
- Attend fairs and exhibitions held in the restored halls
- Take a break at the cafes within the complex
- Walk from the railway station to a landmark of industrial heritage
Tips for visiting
- Check the event programme before going, as opening depends on what is scheduled
- Confirm which spaces are open after the November 2025 fire
- Bring some cash for small craft stalls
- Ask makers about materials and origin to spot genuine local crafts
- Avoid assuming trade fairs are open to the public
- Combine the visit with the nearby station and port area
When to visit
Visit during a scheduled market, fair or exhibition, since opening depends on events. Weekday daytime is calmer, and popular events and the Christmas period are the busiest.
Accessibility
The restored halls and courtyards are largely at ground level, which generally helps wheelchair and stroller users, but conditions vary by event and by which areas are open after the fire. Visitors with mobility needs should check with the venue.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is Le Ciminiere a shopping mall?
No. It is a converted industrial complex used for fairs, congresses, cinema and arts, with shopping mainly through temporary markets and events.
Where is it?
It is at Viale Africa 12, near Catania's railway station and port.
Is the whole complex open?
A fire damaged the auditorium roof area in November 2025, so some spaces may be closed. Visitors should check current status before going.
Are there places to eat?
Cafes operate within the complex, and more bars and restaurants are close by around the station and port.