The impressive Roccia dello Schiavo is of great significance to the climbers of Sicily since it was here that climbing on the island first started in the 1940s. The giant rock pillar stands proudly above the city yet, despite this proximity, it has a tranquil feel and is in a national park. As with many old-school venues, it is not as popular these days hence a good place to head for if other areas are busy.
Historically development involved long multi-pitch routes with limited fixed gear. In more recent times, activity has focussed on the lower pitches only and the upper sections are something of an unknown quantity which aren't covered in this book. Re-equipping has taken place, and there is some old gear still on the lower pitches.