A journey through Western Sicily reveals a world of sensations, scents, and unique colors. Immerse yourself in the deepest blue of the Stagnone and Egadi islands, stroll among the white dunes of the Salt Pans of Marsala, relive ancient lives in the archaeological parks of Marsala, Mozia, Segesta, and Selinunte.
Or simply give in to a reality that’s more intense than any fantasy.
Marsala, an intimate city that contains corners of unexpected charm, is a city on a human scale, a world to explore at one’s leisure, walking slowly and savoring the precious wine of the same name. The historic center is enclosed by the ancient Spanish gates, the most famous of which is Porta Garibaldi which connects the site of the Garibaldi landing with the ancient seat of the city. Visit the ancient fish market (the old Spanish stables) and the stunning Church of the Addolorata. Following Via Garibaldi, reach the Piazza della Repubblica which is the heart of the city, with its majestic Duomo and Palazzo VII Aprile. Just behind the cathedral is the Museo degli Arazzi and the baroque Piazza del Purgatorio with its fountain. On the waterfront is the Museum of the Punic Ship and the ancient Lilybeo, the archaeological park, and the church of San Giovanni where you’ll find the cave of the Sibyl lilybetana where the first Christians gathered. Marking the footsteps of the many civilizations that passed through here, the architecture and layout of the city reveal a historical line going back through Punic, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences.
The Stagnone Nature Reserve is a must-see if you stay in Marsala: the atmosphere is hard to describe, with colors that are almost unreal at sunset. The lagoon of the Stagnone embraces the islands of Mozia, Isola Lunga, Schola, and Santa Maria. This is where you’ll find the oldest salt pans in Sicily, dotted with charming windmills, tanks, and mounds of salt, surrounded by paths ideal for trekking. Today the Stagnone is one of the most popular areas for kitesurfing and windsurfing, but also suitable for canoes, pedal boats, and small sailboats. We recommend taking a boat tour with a local wine and food tasting.
Mozia, a precious island set in the middle of a lagoon, of ancient Phoenician origin, around the 8th century BC, it was an important commercial center in the center of the Mediterranean. It was destroyed by Dionysius of Syracuse in 397 BC. For centuries it remained in oblivion: no one knew where it was, many thinking it might be what is now the Isola delle Femmine near Palermo.
It was Joseph Whitaker, the great British archaeologist, banker, and skilled marsala wine merchant who, thanks to his support for archeological excavations, brought Mozia back to us with all her history.
The excavations brought to light evidence of the original civilization: the Phoenician-Punic Sanctuary of Cappiddazzu, a part of the necropolis, the House of Mosaics, the north and south gates. All of which are archeological sites we strongly recommend you visit! In the museum of Mozia you can trace the historical and cultural stratifications of the era; in one of the halls there is a majestic marble statue representing a young man with a perfect body dressed in a tunic that reveals the harmony of movement and the beauty of the expressions of a victorious charioteer or god.
The archipelago of the Egadi Islands is a combination of uncontaminated nature, crystal clear waters, and pure magic. Favignana, Marettimo, and Levanzo, together with the islands of Formica, Maraone, make up the largest Marine Protected Area in Europe. The Egadi Islands offer beautiful coves of turquoise water to explore by boat or from the rocks, such as the famous Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra in Favignana, Cala Minnole in Levanzo, and Cala Bianca in Marettimo. In terms of history and culture we remember the Punic wars fought between the Egadis, and the Marine Reserve is today one of the most important underwater archeology museums in the world, while the Punic ship can be visited at the Baglio Anselmi Museum in Marsala. The heritage of the Tonnara is beautifully told through modern multimedia technology in the old Florio factory. Bike lovers and walkers will love Favignana, the butterfly of the Mediterranean, and the most popular island for cycling in the Mediterranean.
Trapani is crowned by the sea from two sides: in many parts of the city, you can admire it to left or to right. The historic center fits into a thin strip of land, with narrow streets and paved alleys, overlooked by Baroque churches and palazzos. The Chiesa delle Anime del Purgatorio is charming, and if you walk to the old Fish Market at the Bastione Conca, along the Walls of Tramontana, you’ll be rewarded with an exceptional view of the Egadi Islands and Erice. A visit to the Pepoli Museum is also worthwhile.
A town with traces of African and Norman heritage, a union of traditions and cultures that’s unique to Sicily. The layout and architecture of Mazara del Vallo are reminiscent of Islamic medinas, softened with a Mediterranean touch. The Norman Arch and picturesque steps merge with the Baroque charm of the Church of San Francesco and the Sant Egidio Museum, with its Dancing Satyr of the 4th century BC
Erice is an unexpected journey back to the Middle Ages, with its fortifications, stone roads, and crenellated towers. All around the cyclopean walls act as guardians of the city, while inside there are many churches to enjoy. The most popular attractions are the 12th-century Norman Castle of Venus, the Giardino del Balio, Pepoli Castle, Spanish Quarter, and the walls with town gates.
Segesta owes its foundation to a band of Trojans who fled that burning city in the 9th century BC. It reached its peak in the 5th century, but lasted for just 100 years more. Today the archaeological site of Segesta is of considerable value, preserving the magic of ancient splendor. The main buildings, in excellent condition, are the majestic temple with six columns and the 3rd-century theater on the top of Mount Barbaro, overlooking the sea and surrounding hills.
The most westerly Greek colony in Sicily, this city was founded in 650 BC and had a key role in maritime trade. Destroyed in 409 BC by the Carthaginians, Selinunte is today the largest archaeological park in Europe. The one area not to be missed is the Acropolis, on a plateau overlooking the sea, where some walls, towers, and remains of some temples remain. A visit to Selinunte awakens dormant and grandiose civilizations.
Very comfortable and relaxed hotel, located well for day trips to Marsala, Segesta
Smudge65