PANTELLARIA (anciently Cossyra), an island belonging to Sicily, in the Mediterranean, 50 miles E.S.E. of Cape Bon, and 80 miles S.W. of the coast of Sicily. The coasts are steep and rocky, affording a landing-place only in one harbour; and the surface is mountainous, and of volcanic origin. It contains mineral springs, and a lake of great depth. The soil is fertile, producing vines, figs, &c. The principal town, which is called Pantellaria, and sometimes also Oppidolo, is built in the form of a semicircle round the harbour, which has a narrow entrance. It contains several churches; and is defended by a castle occupied by a Sicilian garrison. Pop. of the island, 7000.