The Girgentana goat breed takes its name from the city of Agrigento, Sicily (in Sicilian Girgenti) where in the past there were present more than 30,000. Today, however, this breed is in danger of disappearance.
It is thought the ancient origins of this goat breed are in central South Asia, specifically Kashmir, northern Afghanistan, and Balochistan. It has been hypothesized the breed is descended, at least partially, from the Markhor, a species of goat-antelope.
The Girgentana goat has characteristic horns, twisted into a spiral form. It has a very long beard and a primarily white coat with grey-brown hair around the head and throat. It has a good production of high-quality milk.