Where to go when you are thirsty in Sicily

The term “thirsty” has two meanings. It can refer to the desire for something to drink or indicate a craving of a sexual nature. Regardless of which meaning applies, there is a place that humorously caters to both needs.

I am writing this article because I came across a reel on Instagram (on the right) that had me in stitches. I suppose my open-mindedness contributed to my enjoyment of it, as I found it funny rather than offensive.

It made me think of Andre, a character from the story “Hybrid Alpha” by Bryant. When he was still unmated, he was known for his romantic escapades with both shifters and humans. He is openly and unapologetically gay, and I can easily imagine him visiting Turrisi Bar for some fun. Additionally, since Andre lives in Sicily, it isn’t too far from where the Incubi pack is located.

I’ve thought about it, and I am convinced that Andre is a regular at Turrisi Bar, lol!

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by LEE:O:SLAYER. (@slayer9764_)

Turrisi Bar is in Sicily

Turrisi Bar, also known as Bar Turrisi, is a well-known establishment located in Castelmola, Sicily. Established in 1947, the bar features an array of phallic imagery throughout its decor. Visitors can find phalluses represented in the statuary, paintings, door handles, furniture, fixtures, and even on some wine bottles and faucets.

The faucet featured in the video was quite interesting, I must admit. It’s not just that it is shaped like a phallus, but rather that it needs to be handled like a penis to make the water flow! I won’t go into detail about how or why this is the case for those who might be unfamiliar, but it’s clear that this is not a place we would want to take our “innocent” friends if we wish to preserve their innocence or naivete.

To clarify, it is a faucet, so no one should attempt to mount it, as that would break the sink!

The story behind the phalluses in Turrisi Bar

The website is in Italian, and I used Google Translate to read the content on a page titled “The Phalluses,” which is located under the main link “The Bar.” I made some minor adjustments for clarity. Additionally, the page includes paintings on the side that complement the text I’ve copied below. Here is an excerpt of what it says:

Sicily, under the Mediterranean sun, was home to the first gay communities in the late nineteenth century. These communities, delicate, restless, and refined, emerged from illustrious and wealthy families. They harbored the “existential torments of an already decadent Europe” and attracted both real and perceived intellectuals who found themselves overshadowed in the salons of London, Paris, and Berlin. In Sicily, they discovered a small “oasis” where they could indulge in all forms of extravagance, freedom, and unrestrained expression. With its rich history and cultural significance, Sicily played a pivotal role in this narrative.

The phallus, initially a source of great concern—especially for the parish priest—carries profound cultural significance. It is not a vulgar symbol but one that is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Greeks and the ancient colonizers of this land. The god Priapus, symbolized by the phallus, represented fertility, freedom, luck, life, and beauty in ancient Greece. These ideals, ever-present in the atmosphere of this hot and arid land, find a distinct expression in this bar, which, along with other cultural elements like Sicilian carts, puppets, and cart keys, seeks to encapsulate a part of Sicilian heritage.

In ancient times, the phallus was seen as a symbol that warded off the evil eye—a belief that persists to this day. This establishment, a guardian of history, continues to uphold the legacy it inherited while also addressing the demands of the present.

Turrisi offers more

While a phallic-themed establishment may not be entirely unique, it certainly stands out as an interesting conversation starter. This can help generate interest not only in the bar itself but also in the town where it is located. Additionally, they offer a bed and breakfast called Casa Turrisi, where travelers can stay and enjoy the beauty of Castelmola.

If you’d like to bring a taste of Turrisi Bar home with you, they have an online store called Vino Mandorla. I’m unsure about their pricing, but here are some details: the Phallic Shot, which contains 3 cl, costs €7; the 10 cl Phallic bottle is priced at €12; and the 50 cl bottle costs €25.

When I converted that to Philippine Pesos, I was shocked. The wines are meant to be good, but we primarily focus on the uniqueness of the bottle. In fact, we could buy an empty phallic-shaped shot bottle for just €3.