The name derives from Ancient Greek 'samax', which means "rush mat", or from the Mesopotamian god Samas.

The main attraction of note is the 15th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista in the town centre, built in an Aragonese-influenced Gothic style.

Other churches include the 17th-century Santa Barbara and the ruined San Marco.

The Monte Granitico, a former grain silo that is now a library, is known for its unusual floor plan.

Samatzai's economy is mainly focused on the primary sector, despite it being home to one of Italy's most prominent cement works.