Located in the historic center of Cefalù, the Medieval Washhouse is a must-visit attraction. Descend a wide, slightly spiral staircase (watch out for slippery steps!) to reach the public washhouse. Legend has it that the Cefalino River springs from the tears of a nymph who, filled with remorse after killing her unfaithful lover, drowned the ancient washhouse. The washhouse features twenty-two cast iron basins, some adorned with lion heads, where washerwomen used to do laundry using washboards. It's a refreshing dive into the past.
With its semicircular staircase and unique atmosphere, the Medieval Washhouse is a truly captivating place. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in Cefalù's historic center.
Openings hours are posted at the entrance, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. The washhouse is not always open to the public. The photos and videos on display provide a better understanding of this spring-fed washhouse, where icy waters were used for laundry. It's an absolute must-see.
As you stroll through Cefalù's historic center, you can't miss the Medieval Washhouse. It's a fascinating reminder of the hard work that went into washing clothes before the advent of washing machines, a task usually performed by women.
This perfectly preserved medieval washhouse is supplied with fresh water from the Madonie Mountains, creating a particularly cool and welcoming environment. Located on one of Cefalù's main streets, I highly recommend visiting this small space that takes us back in time to when clothes were washed by hand in communal areas with ash.
Step back in time at the Medieval Washhouse!
Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele, 90015 Cefalù PA, Italia
Opening hours: lunedì: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00, martedì: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00, mercoledì: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00, giovedì: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00, venerdì: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00, sabato: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00, domenica: 10:00–12:00, 16:00–19:00.
