Useful information for tourists about Trapani (Sicily) in Italy - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.
Trapani is a large port city on the northwestern coast of Sicily, the center of the province of the same name, which also includes the Aegadian Islands. In ancient times, the city was called Drepanon, which translated from Greek means “sickle” - the cape at the foot of Mount Erice, on which Trapani stands, has the shape of a sickle. Already in the 14-13 centuries BC. the Elim tribes lived here, who founded the cities of Erice and Segesta, and later the Siculi. In 650 BC. Greek navigators appeared on Cape Trapani and the surrounding islands and founded Selinunte - and to this day the ruins of this ancient city never cease to amaze researchers. As a result of the Punic Wars, Sicily came under the rule of the Roman Empire, which led to the decline of the economic and political life of the province. Only during the period of Arab and then Norman rule did Trapani reach its greatest prosperity. Trade, fishing, navigation and various crafts actively developed here.
Today Trapani is one of the most prosperous cities in Sicily. Olives are grown here, wine is produced, and tuna is mined. Numerous saltworks have existed since ancient times, one of the most famous is the saltworks of Baron Antonio D’Ali Stati. Finally, thousands of tourists come here, offering luxury hotels and villas, first-class restaurants and bars and interesting attractions.
You can start your acquaintance with Trapani by visiting the ancient Basilica of Santa Maria del Annunziata, built at the beginning of the 14th century. Inside is a revered miraculous marble statue of the Madonna and Child, created by Nino Pisano. It was given to the city by a knight who found salvation here from the Saracens. Next to the basilica is the Augusto Pepoli Museum, which houses various artifacts from the Greek and Roman eras, as well as paintings. One of the most interesting exhibitions is dedicated to the ancient art of coral processing, for which Trapani is famous.
In the very center of the city stretches one of its most beautiful streets - Corso Vittorio Emanuele with villas of the 17th-19th centuries, leading to the square of the same name. Nearby stands the Palazzo della Giudecca, also known as Casa Ciambra, with exquisitely decorated windows, beautiful wall decoration and a tall tower. There is also the Church of Purgatorio, from which the religious procession begins during Holy Week and in which the so-called “mysteries” are kept - wooden sculptures used during the procession. Another notable church in Trapani is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, built in the 17th century.
Among other significant buildings, it is worth noting Palazzo Cavarretta, Palazzo Senatorio, Palazzo Lucatelli, the Fountain of Saturn, built in 1342, and the Fountain of Triton, Palazzo Riccio di Morana, the Torre di Ligni tower with the Museum of Prehistoric Times, the castles Castello della Colombaia and Castello di Terra.
Finally, you should definitely visit the famous saltworks located on the city's waterfront. Salt production has been thriving here since the time of the Phoenicians, and the entire history of this craft can be learned at the local Salt Museum. The ancient windmills, which have become a real symbol of Trapani, give the area a special charm.
The surrounding area of Trapani is no less interesting to visit. For example, the town of Erice, located on a mountain top just 15 km from the provincial capital, is famous for its medieval architecture and Renaissance atmosphere. Here you can admire the Castle of Pepoli and the Castle of Venus, the Gothic Church of the Virgin from the 14th century and the Romanesque churches of San Martino and San Giuseppe.
On the road from Trapani to the resort town of San Vito Lo Capo there is a chapel called the Chapel di Crescenza, dedicated to the great martyr St. Vitus and his nanny, who were executed for their faith. According to legend, if you throw a stone over your head while standing with your back to the chapel, you can get rid of all fears.
A person who is usually called an average person has hardly heard of the small province of Trapani and the town of the same name, located in the northwest. But if you ask this person, especially an older person, who is commissioner Cattani, then many will remember the once sensational Italian series “Octopus”, where Cattani courageously fights the Sicilian mafia. But the action of the series takes place precisely on the narrow ancient streets of Trapani!
A look into the past
Like all the cities of Sicily without exception, Trapani also lived through difficult, turbulent centuries, where one invader was replaced by another. Archaeological excavations show that already several millennia BC, the lands of the present province of Trapani were inhabited by representatives of the Elimac people.
A real settlement arose here with the arrival of Greek colonialists. They named him Drepanon, which means sickle. The fact is that here, between the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian seas, a narrow crescent-shaped peninsula arose with convenient harbors. Actually, this peninsula became the historical center of present-day Trapani, and in this way it resembles the island of Ortigia in.
The Greeks did not change their habits and came up with a beautiful legend about how the harvest goddess Demeter, having learned about the death of her daughter, dropped her sharp sickle out of grief, and it fell into the sea waters, catching its handle on the shore, turning into a peninsula.
Sicily always remained the arena of struggle between the Greeks and Carthaginians for “spheres of influence.” At a certain period of time, Drepanon became Phoenician, and then one of the major ports of the Carthaginians. The Phoenicians developed salt production here, and since then, local residents have mined salt in the vicinity of the city for many centuries, under different rulers.
In the 3rd century BC. A major naval event took place in the city's harbor Battle of Drepanon"between the Romans and the Carthaginians, in which the fleet of the latter won a brilliant victory. However, the fate of the city, like the whole of Sicily, was still predetermined - the rule of the Roman Empire was established here for several centuries.
After the Romans the province came under the jurisdiction Byzantium, Then Arabs, and then - Normans, Spaniards, and finally, Bourbons. The latter were expelled from here by the rebel Sicilians led by Garibaldi. Each of the peoples left something of their own in the appearance of the city, so Trapani, like perhaps no other city on the island, today demonstrates amazing diversity architectural styles, especially impressive given its modest size.
Still, to generalize, it should be said that the appearance of the city was shaped mainly by Arabs and Spaniards. The first, among other things, created a well-branched irrigation system in the province and laid out the existing street network. The latter recreated and improved city wall, built several fortified towers and fortresses, and also built many Catholic churches and monasteries.
What is interesting about the city of Trapani for tourists?
Trapani is not the most popular tourist city in the province; there are more popular places here, for example, Favignana or Erice. But these towns attract visitors only with their promotion, leisure industry and entertainment, while in Trapani you can enjoy the architecture, history, and unique charm of ancient Sicily.
Having decided to get acquainted with this town, you should not worry about transport, and it’s difficult to get lost here, because all the historical streets are short, often with both ends resting on the sea embankment (this is the “sickle” of Demeter). Taking a bottle of water with you just in case to freshen up, you can really see the sights in half a day.
The main street of the old city is considered to be pedestrian Vittorio Emmanuele (Corso Vittorio Emanuele). Its elegant façade attracts attention. Basilica of the Virgin Mary, built at the beginning of the 14th century. It houses the Madonna di Trapani - a marble statue of the Virgin and Child. Believers from all over the country come here to see the shrine. The number of pilgrims increases rapidly in the first half of August, during the multi-day festival in honor of the Madonna. It ends with the ceremonial removal of the statue from the basilica to the city streets. According to some reports, the sculpture was created by the famous Nino Pisano.
In close proximity to the Basilica there is a former Carmelite monastery, at one time it was considered the largest Carmelite monastery in Italy. Now there is a secular institution functioning here - the Pepoli Museum, popular in the city.
On the same street there is also Cathedral of San Lorenzo- the main city temple in the system church hierarchy. Its wide façade, designed in Baroque style, barely fits among the surrounding buildings. It is replete with decorative elements: stucco, small statues, arches and cornices. The modern building of the cathedral was built in the 17th century, but, as often happens in Sicily, on the site of a 14th century temple that previously stood here.
In addition to these most significant churches, Trapani has at least a dozen other temples representing the era of the middle and late Middle Ages. Among them we can highlight Church of Our Lady of Jesus And Church of St. Augustine. The first is famous for its unusual ceramic sculpture of Our Lady, the second, located on Via Torrearsa - one of the oldest in the city, has a remarkable stone “rosette” above the entrance.
Also popular outside of Sicily Church of Purgatory(chiesa del Purgatorio). Here are important shrines for the townspeople - 20 human-sized figures depicting scenes from the suffering of Christ. The figures are more than two centuries old, and every year on Easter, on Good Friday, residents solemnly take them out onto the streets of Trapani to perform a special theatrical performance - the Mystery.
On Via Garibaldi city guests are surprised by the luxurious medieval palaces of local nobles- palazzo. They are named after their owners: Morana, Cavaretta, San Gioachino, Milo, San Rocco. At the end of the street is the Senator's Palace with a pair of huge antique clocks. Several palazzos are located and on Via Liberta.
A small cape near Trapani harbor is guarded by a massive fortress-castle Castello Colombia, which was built at one time by the Arabs on the site of an ancient, apparently Greek fortification, and reconstructed and strengthened by the Spaniards. If you arrive in the city from the sea, this particular fortress is visible from afar, welcoming travelers. Lock for a long time It was used as a prison, and even now it looks a bit gloomy.
Not far from it there is another fortification, Torre di Ligni(Torre di Ligny), a fortress tower at the very tip of Cape Trapani. Its authors are the Spaniards, and until the middle of the 19th century, artillery pieces were installed here. Now the tower receives tourists, there is work inside it Museum of Prehistoric Times.
And the most popular museum in the city is called National Museum of Pepoli, in the building of the Carmelite monastery, which has already been mentioned here. The museum specializes in collections from the times Ancient Greece and Rome, but its highlight is the exhibition of crafts made from coral, which a couple of centuries ago was worth its weight in gold in Europe. Nowadays it is impossible to make souvenirs from corals, but in the past local residents were famous for their ability to process corals, decorating them with precious metals.
Also in the Pepoli Museum there is a permanent art gallery of famous artists of Sicily.
Everyone who has visited this city considers ancient salt mines or saltworks. It has already been mentioned that the Phoenicians began to develop the tradition of salt extraction here. It is noteworthy that salt is mined in these parts even now, although the scale of fishing has decreased significantly. The mills that ground salt still decorate the appearance of the city to this day, although now, of course, they have already lost their functionality. On the embankment, where tourists flock during the promenade, there is an interesting and educational Salt Museum.
Lovers of antiquity should definitely visit Segestu- an ancient Hellenic city twenty minutes drive east of Trapani. Since the 13th century it has been abandoned, although in ancient times it was one of the richest in Sicily. At the excavation site of old Segesta, an unfinished temple with 36 columns has been preserved, even now impressive in its scale. Also here you can see a huge amphitheater carved into the rock, the remains of an Arab mosque, the ruins of city walls and a Norman castle.
Excursions in Trapani
To fully enjoy the interesting places in Trapani, we recommend using the services. This region is very interesting in terms of excursions:
- The city of Trapani itself: ancient and interesting
- Mountainous and picturesque medieval Erice
- Amazing beaches of the Aegadian Islands
- Capital Sicilian mafia Salemi
- Salt mines
- Marsala, the city of the famous Sicilian wine.
You can sign up for a tour by filling out the form below.
Beach holidays in Trapani, Sicily
There are no good ones directly in the city; the shores here are rocky. Those who like to soak up the sand usually go to towns Marausa and San Giuliano, located literally in the suburbs of Trapani. In San Giuliano, in general, you can even walk, it’s only about 2 km from the city center. To get to Lido Marausa beach you need to drive about 9 km, but here the wide coastline stretches for more than 2 km. From here, from Marauza, tourists are always taken to the small Egadi islands, clearly visible even from the beach line.
If you are ready to plunge into a beach holiday seriously and for a long time, you can visit beaches of San Vito lo Capo, 40 km. from Trapani. There are ideal beaches, many excellent hotels, everything for comfortable rest. The local beach is one of the top Sicilian sandy beaches, it is well-groomed, clean, the water is always calm and shallow, which is especially important for families with children.
Local cuisine of Trapani, Italy
It is represented by traditional Italian dishes with an admixture of Arabic influence, which is generally characteristic of Sicily. The city streets are replete with small eateries and cafes, where you can always try a variety of pizza And spaghetti. Closer to the embankment, dishes with the addition of seafood. Tuna prepared in a variety of ways, fish sauces and casseroles are popular here. You can always find many different soft cheeses, as well as excellent local olives and homebaked bread. An everyday treat in Trapani is Arabic couscous with spicy fish sauce.
An excellent solution to learn the culinary traditions of Sicily is to go
Many interesting local products can be purchased at fish market, which is always lively. The city of Trapani does not boast good shopping, but the fish market will provide good opportunity wander around to your heart's content in search of local colorful shopping.
Do not also forget that the province of Trapani is famous throughout Sicily with your wines, which are produced here more than the total in Austria, Chile and Hungary.
Things to do in Trapani
Locals love colorful festivals. One has already been mentioned - this is (Processione dei Gruppi Sacri della Via Crucis), when figures from the Church of Purgatory of Souls are paraded through the streets. Thousands of tourists specially come to this event.
At the end of September the traditional couscous festival. It was born quite recently, but already has its traditional admirers who come here to get acquainted with the cuisine of North Africa and learn the traditions of the peoples of the Mediterranean.
In July, opera lovers arrive in the city for the traditional opera festival, which is more than half a century old. It is known throughout Sicily, and is known about on the Italian mainland. The masters of this art organize their concerts at Villa Margherita. By the way, this villa is famous in the city for its luxurious park, where you can see various exotic plants. It is in the park, in a beautiful amphitheater, that opera concerts are performed.
On August 7, the streets of the city are transformed, drowning in bright colors and fun. This is how they celebrate feast of St. Albert, patron saint of Trapani. The townspeople make every effort to make their holiday spectacular and attract tourists.
Local funicular Trapani-Erice
As already noted, Trapani is a coastal city, its historical center is located on a flat peninsula. But over time, the city grew, and now its outskirts are detached from the sea, climbing a steep mountain slope. This mountain is called Erice, it rises above the city, and is connected to it by a long funicular, built on the basis of an old cable car. The length of the funicular is more than 3000 m, the upper station is located at an altitude of approximately 800 meters. Travel time one way takes 25 minutes. Modern cabins for 8 people are equipped with lighting, there are special cabins for the disabled, as well as for travelers with bicycles.
From the observation deck on the slope of Erice, an unforgettable view of the sea coast opens, lying below Trapani and the Aegadian Islands darkening in the distance. If it happens in spring, the air is filled with the smells of citrus orchards that grow in abundance on the slopes of the mountain. From the seaport to the lower station of the funicular there are buses With numbers 21 and 23. Funicular fare - 9 euros round trip.
How to get to Trapani
In the city itself there is a small airport, Vincenzo Florio, where low-cost flights fly from many points in Italy, located only 8 km away. from the center. The nearest major airport with easy access to Trapani is. From here there are regular services between cities. Travel time is 1 hour 45 minutes, cost is approximately 7 euros one way. You can also get there by train, but trains run quite rarely.
Cheap flights TPS
| Where | departure date | Return date | Find a ticket |
Bologna | |||
Rome | |||
Catania |
TOURISTS' ANSWERS:
Trapani is not a very big city; about 70 thousand people live here. The town is located on the northwestern coast of Sicily and is famous for its luxurious beaches, gentle sun, and, of course, attractions. By the way, about them!
Basilica of Maria Santissima Annunziata 
This is perhaps one of the main attractions of the city. The cathedral is located in the Baroque-Renaissance style in the historical center of the city. The church is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary of Carmelite. The basilica, belonging to the order of Carmelite monks, was built in 1250, although at that time it was a tiny church and had a different name. Later, the church was rebuilt and then expanded again in the 18th century. The main treasure of the basilica is the marble statue of the Madonna and Child (Madonna di Trapani). They say that it was created by the great 14th century Italian sculptor Nino Pisano. The statue is known in all Mediterranean countries, but this temple is one of the most popular in Sicily. Also interesting is the chapel, which was built at the end of the 16th century and its silver figurine of St. Alberto degli Abati, as well as the relics of the saint (his skull). Nearby you can see the cell where the saint lived - the relics of Blessed Luigi Rabat are now located there. Under the altar of the temple are the remains of the Roman great martyr Saint Clement. In the center there are 16 columns and luxurious silver stucco, and above the entrance to the temple you can see a very beautiful round rose window. Next to the basilica there is a Carmelite monastery (once it was the largest in all of Italy) - today the monastery houses a museum. Next you can see the city park. 
From August 1 to August 16, every year there is a religious festival in honor of the Madonna and Child - a huge number of pilgrims come here. The holiday ends with the removal of the famous statue from the basilica.
Torre di Ligny 
The symbol of the city, a tower-fortress in the western part of Cape Trapani, between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Strait of Sicily. The tower was built in 1671 during the Spanish rule in Sicily, as a defensive structure (to protect against Barbary pirates who loved to attack Sicily). By the beginning of the 19th century, the place that connected the tower with the city was made pedestrian and open to all people. Until the mid-19th century, there were firearms at the top of the tower, and during World War II the tower was actively used by the Navy as an anti-aircraft position. In 79 of the last century, the tower became open to tourists, and excursions began to be held here.
The tower on the rocks is like a continuation of the ancient city, which was once called Pietra Palazzo. The tower tapers towards the top, and at the top there are four gatehouses with lanterns.
The museum also houses the Museum of Prehistoric Times, where you can admire prehistoric objects found during archaeological excavations in the city. On the second floor, admire exhibits related to maritime archeology - all sorts of anchors, shipwrecks, jewelry of the ancient Greeks and Romans that were found at the bottom of the sea. A very interesting exhibit is the body of a helmet, which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Be sure to climb to the roof of the fortress - the views of the bay and mountain are simply stunning!
Castle Castello Colombaia 
The luxurious castle (also called Castello Di Mare and Torre Peliade) is built on a small island in front of the entrance to the port of Trapani. The castle is definitely worth a look - a wonderful (if not the best) example of military architecture in Sicily. And if the origins of the city itself are shrouded in legends and secrets, the same can be said about this castle, which has become one of the main attractions of Trapani. There are many stories and legends about its construction, dating back to antiquity, but in reality there is not a single reliable document confirming at least some version. It is said that this castle has something to do with the Trojan exiles who arrived in Trapani after Troy fell in the 13th century BC. Someone says that the castle was built during the First Punic War (in the 3rd century BC). Like, it happened on the water near Trapani sea battle, where the Romans were defeated by the Carthaginians. Then, some time later, the Roman consul and his army attacked the island of Colombia (well, where the castle stands) and quickly recaptured it in just a day, with massive casualties. However, after this, it would seem that the castle was already forgotten. 
It became completely dilapidated, and pigeons began to nest on it (“Colomba” means “dove” in Italian, which is why the fortress was named that way). Castello Colombia was also used as a lighthouse - it could be seen from afar. In the Middle Ages, the castle was restored, the castle tower became octagonal. In the 15th century, the castle was slightly expanded and the building again became defensive. In the 17th century, the castle became a prison where Sicilian patriots, participants in popular uprisings, were imprisoned. Moreover, the castle was a prison for quite a long time, right up until 1965. After this, the fortress was abandoned again for almost 30 years, and only in the 80s did they begin to restore and renovate.
The castle is a rather gloomy sight. The height of the structure is 32 meters, the balconies are walled up. In front of the castle you can see a small pier. Behind the main building is a courtyard with two chapels, which were used as warehouses during World War II. Another pier today is in completely unusable condition.
Ancient city of Segesta 
The ancient city of Segesta in northwestern Sicily, 20 minutes drive east of Trapani, was founded by Hellenes expelled from Troy. When exactly is unknown. But archaeological finds claim that in the 4th century BC. people definitely lived here. Segesta was one of the richest cities in Sicily, but was abandoned in the 13th century. The most impressive part of the city is the Doric temple with 36 columns, which was not completed during construction. It is said that the purpose of building this temple was to impress the rulers of Athens during their visit to the island. However, when they sailed away from the island, the castle was safely stopped being built. And still he is very handsome. Also pay attention to the amphitheater in the rock at an altitude of 440 meters above sea level. Also in ancient city you can see the ruins of the city walls, an Arab mosque and a Norman castle.
Is the answer helpful?
If you still haven’t decided whether to go to Sicilian Trapani or not, then cast aside all your doubts and calmly go on vacation: enjoy the warm and gentle Italian sun on the cleanest beaches with well-developed infrastructure, and also explore and simply admire the city’s numerous attractions.
Since the city is located on an island, the easiest way to get to it is by plane, especially since just 15 kilometers from the city there is a modern airport that cooperates with many well-known airlines. If you wish, you can take a short sea voyage to the nearest Naples, on a comfortable sea ferry.
Cathedral of San Lorenzo / Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
Trapani, Piazza Matteotti, 1-2 - at this address there is a temple built in 1421, and for its long history rebuilt several times. It took on its final form already in the 18th century. Services are still held in the temple, which, however, does not prevent tourists from visiting interior decoration cathedral, especially since there are several paintings here that are worthy of attention. I would especially like to highlight the painting by the famous Flemish painter Anthony Van Dyck called “The Crucifixion”.
Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary / Santuario Dell Anunziata
Another religious building is located at Trapani, Via Conte Agostino Pepoli 178. This church is especially revered by local residents, since inside the temple there is a symbol of the city - a statue of the Madonna, owned by the famous medieval sculptor Nino Pisano. Over its long history (built in 1332), this temple has repeatedly undergone various transformations, so the appearance of the church harmoniously combines various styles, from Gothic to Baroque. Townspeople also come to the church to venerate the relics of St. Abbot Albert, the city's patron saint.
Agostino Pepoli Museum / Museo regionale Agostino Pepoli
The 16th-century building (former monastery), located at Trapani, Via Conte Agostino Pepoli 180, now houses a museum with plenty of valuable and unique exhibits. The paintings of the artist Titian especially stand out. In addition to paintings, there are exhibits of religious themes made from corals on display here. The pearl of the museum is the “crucifix” of the master Matteo Baver, the date of manufacture of which is the 17th century. Entrance tickets for adults cost 6 euros and for children 3 euros.
While exploring local attractions, don’t forget about the beaches, the best of which are located in the vicinity of the town. The Lido Marausa beach is especially good, with numerous cafes, bars and other eateries.
Trapani, one of the largest cities in Western Sicily and an excellent starting point for exploring the island. It has its own airport, port and train station, so there are no problems with transport.
Trapani is the capital of the province of the same name, very rich in various types attractions. Which we will introduce you to now.
The starting point for all routes to interesting places in Trapani is the train station.
Name on native language:
Erice
Charm, traditions and stories from the past, beauty and wonder. You can experience it all for yourself while walking through the streets of Erice, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy.
Erice is famous for its many temples and was known as the city of a hundred churches. However, there are actually fewer of them, but many of them should be visited. In addition to the Church of San Martino, in the Norman style, and the Church of San Albertino degli Abbati, we will highlight the oldest temple dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta.
In addition to the temples, Erice offers fantastic views of Trapani, the sea and the Sicilian countryside. And most importantly - the unique, mysterious atmosphere of this place, seasoned with fogs and alpine coolness.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,0380897521973
Longitude: 12,5873508453369
How to get to Erice
Route by car
Take Via Virgilio and Via Capitano Salvatore Poma towards Via Giovanni Battista Fardella
4 min. (1.0 km)
Take SP31 towards Via Antonino Miceli (Casa Santa)
7 min. (2.1 km)
Take Via S. Anna towards Strada Provinciale 31/SP31
2 minutes. (800 m)
Turn right onto Strada Provinciale 31/SP31
14 min. (8.9 km)
Continue onto SP3. Take Via Vito Carvini towards Via G. Fontana(Erice).
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Operating mode:
Around the clock
Price:
Free entrance
Classification: City
Salt Museum
Name in native language: Museo delle Saline 
The famous Trapani Salt Museum is located in the center of the Saline Trapani nature reserve. This is a privately owned family business located along the route known as the Salt Road.
The museum is housed in a former 17th-century farmhouse, which was used to grind salt using its large windmill. It houses antique tools used by the people who worked there, as well as a collection of documents and old photographs. Through a guided tour, visitors can discover the stages of salt processing, how it has evolved over the centuries and admire an exhibition of original artifacts.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 37,9779472351074
Longitude: 12,5031356811523
How to get to Museo delle Saline by car
Turn left onto Via Osorio
Slight left into Piazza Giangiacomo Ciaccio Montalto
Turn left onto Via Virgilio
Continue on Via Libica
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto SP21
Continue on Via Garibaldi in Nubia
Turn right onto VIA CHIUSA - NUBIA
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Operating mode:
Every day from 9:30 to 19:00
Price:
The entrance ticket to the Trapani Salt Museum is 2.50 €, discounts for groups of at least 30 people (€ 2) and students (1.50 €).
Classification:
Salina Trapani
Name in native language: Riserva Naturale Saline Di Trapani 
The Salt Lagoon is located in Western Sicily, on the coast connecting Trapani to Marsala. A unique site opposite the island of Mothia, on the famous “salt route”, which offers visitors many opportunities such as: visit to the Infersa factory and museum, salt lakes; visit to Isola Lunga.
The beautiful lakes have become a haven for flamingos and herons, of which there are a lot here. In addition, at sunset you get magical photos with mills, birds, salt mountains and lakes.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 37,9782218933105
Longitude: 12,5093383789063
How to get to Riserva Naturale Saline Di Trapani by car
Take Piazza Giangiacomo Ciaccio Montalto towards Via Ilio
1 min. (300 m)
Take Via I Dorsale Z.I.R and SP21 towards Via Garibaldi in Nubia/Strada Comunale Paceco - Nubia (Paceco)
7 min. (5.0 km)
Turn right onto Via Garibaldi in Nubia/Strada Comunale Paceco - Nubia
Continue onto Via Garibaldi, Nubia
Destination will be on the left
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Operating mode:
Around the clock
Price:
Free
Classification: Reserve
Santa Margherita Beach
Name in native language: Baia Santa Margherita 
Before arriving in San Vito Lo Capo and passing through the village of Castelluzzo, you can admire one of the most unspoilt areas on the west coast of Sicily; we are talking about a stretch of coastline that runs from Monte Cofano to Macari. Here is the beautiful bay of Santa Margherita Ligure. A beautiful place with clean water.
It is a good alternative to the beach of San Vito Lo Capo, especially when the north-easterly winds blow, and is certainly a must for those who love to explore the natural beauty of our land.
The beach is quiet and served by a small bar; you can also rent umbrellas and sun loungers.
Thanks to the small train that connects the beach to the parking lot, you can visit all the small coves along the coast. Some are sandy and others are rocky or made of pebbles. This bay is very close to the Monte Cofano nature reserve.
An unforgettable experience for young and old.
The beautiful sea and breathtaking nature make this side of the coast a little paradise where you can admire fantastic sunsets.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,1252784729004
Longitude: 12,7287826538086
How to get to Baia Santa Margherita by car
Take Piazza Giangiacomo Ciaccio Montalto towards Via Avvocato Giuseppe Palmeri
1 min. (300 m)
Take Via Giuseppe Mazzini towards Via Marino Torre
1 min. (500 m)
Take Lungomare Dante Alighieri towards Strada Provinciale 20/SP20 (Casa Santa)
8 min. (3.5 km)
Continue onto SP20. Take SP18 and SP16 to the location
33 min. (27.6 km)
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Operating mode:
Around the clock
Price:
Free
Classification:
Florio Winery
Name in native language: Cantine Florio 
Deep in the heart of Sicily's sunbelt lies Marsala - a warm land of mineral-rich soils, sea breezes and plenty of golden sunshine. Florio Marsala has been produced on this land for almost two centuries. Here you can try the famous Marsala - a geographical wine that is famous throughout the world.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 37,7868156433105
Longitude: 12,4453134536743
How to get to Cantine Florio by train+on foot
The Trapani-Marsala train leaves Trapani railway station at 16:01. Arrives in Marsala at 16:41.
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Operating mode:
Mon-Fri from 9:00 to 18:00, Sat from 09:00 to 13:00
Price:
13 euros per person
Classification:
Church "Soul in Purgatory"
Name in native language: Chiesa del Purgatorio 
The Church of Purgatory is located in the heart of the historical center of Trapani, near the port. The Baroque temple was built on the site where a small temple of St. Sebastian stood in 1500, the statue of which was restored in 2000.
In 1574, the small ancient church of St. Sebastian was restored and remodeled thanks to alms and grants. In 1601, a composition of statues of souls in Purgatory was created, from which it takes its name. In the 20s of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the facade, plaster and painting were redone, and in 1711 the temple was solemnly consecrated.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,1252784729004
Longitude: 12,7287826538086
How to get to Chiesa del Purgatorio on foot
Continue south on Piazza Umberto I towards Via Osorio
Turn left onto Via Ruggero di Lauria Ammraglio
Turn right onto Via Biscottai
Continue along Via Pesci
Turn right onto Via Turretta
Turn left onto Via S. Francesco D'Assisi
Via S. Francesco D'Assisi 91100 Trapani TP, Italy
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Operating mode:
From 9:00 to 20:00
Price:
1 euro per photo
Classification: Temple
Bastion of Conca-Trapani
Name in native language: Bastione Conca Trapani 
The most picturesque embankment of Trapani. From here you can see the most beautiful sunsets in Sicily. Lots of cafes and restaurants make this place excellent choice for an evening promenade.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,0167541503906
Longitude: 12,5083150863647
How to get to Bastione Conca Trapani on foot
Trapani 91100 Trapani TP, Italy
Turn left at Passo Stazione
Continue on Via Vincenzo Bellini
Turn right onto Via Spalti
Turn left towards Viale Regina Margherita
Turn right towards Viale Regina Margherita
Turn left onto Viale Regina Margherita
Continue on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi
Turn right at the intersection with Via Torre Arsa
Turn left onto Via Mura di Tramontana Ovest
Via Mura di Tramontana Ovest 91100 Trapani TP, Italy
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Operating mode:
Around the clock
Price:
Free entrance
Classification: Embankment
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
Name in native language: Cattedrale di San Lorenzo 
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is one of the most important buildings in the center of Trapani. This building was built in 1421 and has undergone various changes and renovations since then. It has one floor, and three naves, which you can only see from the inside, from the outside you can only see a beautiful façade. The dome is beautiful, but its condition has deteriorated a little over time and the colors have faded. The exterior stands out, like most other buildings in this city, because of the color of its stone, which, with its light color, gives the building simplicity, elegance and brightness.
Its Baroque interior displays impressive beauty. The cathedral's paintings depict the main events in the history of the city. In addition, inside you can find very valuable paintings, including the “crucifixion” by Van Dyck, and precious sculptures like the dead Christ, the author of which is G. Tartaglia.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,0159606933594
Longitude: 12,5078268051147
How to get to Cattedrale di San Lorenzo on foot
Trapani 91100 Trapani TP, Italy
Continue south on Piazza Umberto I towards Via Osorio
Turn right onto Via Osorio
Turn left onto Via XXX Gennaio
Turn right onto Corso Italia
Continue along Via Sant'Agostino
Turn right onto Via Torre Arsa
Turn left onto Corso Vittorio Emanuele
Turn right onto Via Ximenes 18 m Via Ximenes, 4 91100 Trapani TP, Italy
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Operating mode:
From 9:00 to 20:00
Price:
Free entrance
Classification: Temple
Brewery Il Barbagianni
Name in native language: Il Barbagianni 
Cozy barbecue style restaurant. Lovely owner and friendly staff. Great food: sandwiches, hamburgers. great beer.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,0168418884277
Longitude: 12,5148372650146
How to get to Il Barbagianni on foot
Trapani
91100 Trapani TP, Italy
Continue south on Piazza Umberto I towards Via Osorio
45 m
Turn right onto Via Osorio
300 m
Turn right onto Via XXX Gennaio
The destination will be on the right
70 m
Via XXX Gennaio, 15
91100 Trapani TP, Italy
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Operating mode:
—
Price:
Free entrance
Classification:
Conte Agustino Pepoli Museum
Name in native language: Museo Regionale Conte Agostino Pepoli 
The Pepoli Museum is rich in artistic artifacts from the 19th century and earlier. On display are works by Gaggini, Roberto di Oderisio, coral sculptures, and works by local artists and ceramicists.
You can also see a real guillotine and scaffold here.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38,0189247131348
Longitude: 12,5423316955566
How to get to Museo Regionale Conte Agostino Pepoli on foot
Trapani
91100 Trapani TP, Italy
Continue north along Piazza Umberto I towards Passo Stazione
45 m
Turn right at Passo Stazione
150 m
Passo Stazione turns left into Via Vito Carrera
45 m
Turn right onto Via Vespri
1.0 km
Continue on Via Alcamo
350 m
Turn left onto Via Generale Ameglio
70 m
Turn right onto Via Pepoli Agostino Conte/SS113
450 m
Via Pepoli Agostino Conte, 180
91100 Trapani TP, Italy
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Operating mode:
Mon-Fri from 09 to 17:30, Sat, Sun 09-13
Price:
6 euros per person
Classification:
On the seashore, it is known as the city sea salt and sailing regattas. The prosperity of Trapani in all centuries was ensured by the port, through which goods arrived in the city and passenger traffic was carried out with other parts of Italy and foreign countries. Trapani's economy was based on sea salt production, winemaking, fishing and tourism.
Trapani is often called the city of two seas because it is washed by the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian seas. Trapani has the shape of a sickle, which from a mythological point of view is explained by the fact that the god Saturn dropped a sickle from his hands, which fell on the place where the city was later founded. The first settlement was named Drepanon, which means in ancient Greek "sickle".
Between the 9th and 8th centuries. BC. Trapani was under Punic influence, siding with Carthage during military conflicts. Already in those days, numerous fortifications were built around the city. Drepanon (Trapani) and Lilybaeum (Marsala) were the last strongholds of the Carthaginians in Sicily.
In 241 BC. The Romans inflicted a crushing defeat on the Carthaginian fleet. The conquered city began to be called Drepanum in the Roman manner. But its inhabitants resisted the invaders for a long time, which led to a period of decline and population decline.
After the Romans, Trapani was ruled by the Vandals, then Byzantium, in the 9th century came the Arabs, who were replaced in 1077 by the Normans under the command of Ruggero II. A period of prosperity and prosperity began, the city developed commercially and culturally. During the Middle Ages, the port of Trapani became one of the most important in the Mediterranean, along with Genoa, Pisa, Venice and Amalfi.
After a short period under Angevin control, Trapani took an active part in the Sicilian Vespers uprising, and in 1282 came under Aragonese rule. In the XIV-XV centuries. the city grew and developed, becoming one of the most important economic and political centers in the western part of Sicily.
The 17th century brought decline to Trapani, poverty gave rise to uprisings, and a plague epidemic raged. In the 18th century, the situation stabilized and the population increased sharply. In the 18th century, the time came for the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, which ended with the unification of Italy in 1860. After the First World War, Trapani experienced an economic surge. During the Second World War, the port was used and the city was subjected to a series of bombings, during which the historical quarters were damaged. After the war, Trapani slowly came to its senses, and the city's industrial and commercial activities were restored.
Modern Trapani is an attractive tourist destination where people come in search of magnificent beaches, delicious cuisine and authentic wines.
Trapani is divided into the historical center and modern part.
Via Ammiraglio Staiti and viale Regina Elena are located in the port area. Corso Vittorio Emanuele and via Libertá are the transport axis that runs from the historical center and leads to the northern part of the city. Part of corso Vittorio Emanuele, streets vie Torrearsa and Garibaldi are entirely pedestrian.
Modern Trapani appeared at the end of the 19th century; its main road is via Giovan Battista Fardella.
Five towers outlined the city core; unfortunately, not all of them have survived to this day.
From the railway station we will walk along via Osorio, which rests on via XXX Gennaio. After a few meters we turn right onto a narrow road via Giudecca and we will find ourselves in the Jewish quarter. Further down the street is the Palazzo Giudecca, built in the 16th century and recognizable by its towering turret. The palace belonged to the Chambra family. Jews appeared in Sicily at the end of the 6th century; during the Norman rule they felt protected and completely safe. In 1310, Frederick II of Aragon restricted the freedom of Jews, forced them to mark their clothes with a certain sign and prohibited any contact with other parts of the population. Quite a lot of Jews lived in Trapani; usually the Jewish community was called “Giudecca”. In the late Middle Ages, each of them had political and economic autonomy.
Let's turn left and go out to corso Italia- an avenue along which square houses rise, with shops and cafes on the ground floors; you can look into one of the fish shops generously scattered throughout Trapani.
Fish shop in Trapani
Corso Italia leads to Church of St. Augustine (Sant "Agostino), let's go around the temple, going out to the front part, located on Piazzetta Saturno. The temple was built in the 14th century. Its facade is decorated with a magnificent rose window. Next to the church there is a fountain of Saturn (XIV century), which is adjacent to the wall of the house.
The square faces , along which luxurious palaces are located. But we will turn left, towards the embankment. Then turn right onto viale Regina Elena and we will reach the port. The Trapani promenade is wide and spacious, here is the port and opens great view to the sea.
At the opposite end of the cape you can see Tower of Ligny, which was erected in 1671 by order of Viceroy Claudio La Moraldo, Prince of Ligny. Nowadays there is a museum of prehistoric times here.
Linyi Tower
Let's turn to via Ranuncoli and we'll get to corso Vittorio Emanuele.
At the beginning, the avenue looks quite simple, but closer to the center there are ancient palaces with forged balconies and stone entrance portals.
Palazzo Alessandro Ferro built in the 16th century, which is decorated with a characteristic clock in the center and balconies with medallions in which members of the Ferro dynasty are placed.
Palazzo Berardo Ferro was built in the 18th century in the late Baroque style.
The Epifanio Marini Palace is designed in a neoclassical style.
Next is Cathedral dedicated to Saint Lorenzo The exact date of foundation of the church is unknown; in the 12th century it definitely existed and was dedicated to St. George, the last patron of the Genoese Republic. Merchants from Genoa often visited here and stayed for a long time in Trapani, because commercial activity was well established. In the 13th century, when the Aragonese came to power, the Palazzo quarter was divided into two parts, which were named after the churches present there, i.e. San Francesco and San Lorenzo.
The Temple of St. Lorenzo was restored and rebuilt several times.
The facade is made in the Baroque style and dates back to the 18th century, at which time a beautiful dome, a portico with a bell tower and other changes that have survived to this day appeared.
The interior of the church was also completely renovated in the 18th century. Inside is a valuable painting of the Crucifixion by Van Dyck (1646), as well as numerous other works of art.
Corso Vittorio Emanuele runs into a street we already know . The luxurious Palazzo Senatorio immediately attracts your attention. The owner of the palace was Giacomo Cavarretta. The palazzo was erected in 1672 according to the design of the architect Andrea Palma. Subsequently, a number of changes were made: at the beginning of the 18th century, statues of the Madonna and saints were installed on the facade, and in 1827 a clock and calendar were added. Nowadays, city government bodies sit here. Adjacent to the palazzo is a tower with an astronomical clock, rising above the entrance gate - Porta Oscura. This is the oldest entrance to the city; of the four that existed, only one gate remains.
Let's walk along towards the sea. The street ends Fish Market Square - piazza Mercato del Pesce, which is embraced by the colonnade. The ancient fish market has been restored; it is written that various cultural events take place there. But in common days it looks abandoned and deserted. And the existing market moved to Piazza Scalo D'Alaggio.
Trapani has a long tradition of tuna fishing. Today Trapani's fleet is the fourth in Sicily.
In the XV-XVI centuries. Trapani was famous for its production of coral and silver items. The Pepoli Museum houses magnificent statues, necklaces and other jewelry made from coral. Now coral mining has almost completely stopped, but jewelry and costume jewelry with corals are sold in stores.
Another iconic landmark of Trapani is not in the city center, but at some distance from it, at via Pepoli Agostino Conte.
Officially called the Basilica of St. Mary, it received this name in honor of the valuable marble statue that is kept within its walls. The first temple on this site was erected in 1250; later it was expanded and rebuilt. The Madonna and Child was carved from marble by Nino Pisano in the 14th century and is revered throughout the Mediterranean.
The nave with 17 columns was built in 1742 according to the design of a local architect in the Baroque style. A rose window adorns the façade. The entrance to the chapel of the Madonna of Trapi was made in the form of a monumental arch in 1531-37. During the feast of the Madonna, which falls on Holy Week, there will be a procession.
The church houses numerous relics.
The church belongs to the Carmelite monastery, most of which is occupied by the Agostino Pepoli Museum, also called “treasures of the Madonna.” In front of the basilica is the garden of Villa Pepoli.
Trapani is famous for its salt mining and production of Marsala wine.
Worth to visit
