Guide of Trapani

Trapani is on the western coast of Sicily and is also known for producing salt and for sailing, due to the strategic location of its port.

Brief history

Trapani was founded by the Elymians and soon became an important city. Later it was allied to Carthage, the city walls were built and the Romans were defeated here under the leadership of Aderbale. However, in 241 BC the Romans finally managed to conquer the city. Following the Romans, the Byzantines, Arabs and the Normans dominated. The port in Trapani has always been important, especially during the Middle Ages when the other maritime cities of Genoa, Pisa, Venice and Amalfi had consulates in the port of Trapani.

Places to visit

Do not miss a walk around the historic centre as there are so many baroque churches and some beautiful buildings and that recall the Arab domination. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo houses some really interesting paintings, some of the Flemish tradition. Then there is the Pepoli Museum, which tells the history of the city from prehistory to the nineteenth century. The baroque convent of the Jesuits has beautiful cloisters to walk through, then there is also the ancient church of the Templars, the Church of Sant'Agostino, the neoclassical Palace of Morana and Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

Beaches

One of the best beaches is Torre di Ligny, located at the point where the Tyrrhenian Sea meets the Sicilian Channel, from here you can just see the Egadi Islands. It is a small rocky beach and is overlooked by an ancient tower that served as a lookout. There is another sandy beach located near the ancient city walls, the fine, light sand and a crystal clear water attracts families with children. There is another beach opposite Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, which is a bit larger and is often very busy, the water is shallow and crystal clear.