Segesta and Trapani: Discovering Sicily's Ancient Wonders

Departing from Palermo, just one hour into the journey, you will find the Segesta Temple in the archaeological district of Calatafimi Segesta, in the province of Trapani.
The temple was constructed in the 5th century BC and, despite its classic Greek appearance, it originates from the Elymian civilization. These people, hailing from Anatolia, settled in Sicily before the Greeks.
This is why many historians speculate that due to maritime trade, the Elymians were highly influenced by Greek civilization, to the extent that they 'imported' the architectural style even before the arrival of the Greeks.
After visiting the majestic Temple, you will reach the city of Trapani, where you can spend the remainder of the day exploring on foot.

As the city is small and all the main buildings and attractions are located in the centre, it is advisable to park your car in the parking space near the coastline, and then begin your walk.

Your itinerary begins with a stroll through Piazza Mercato del Pesce, the historic site of the fish market, where even today, fresh fish is available daily.
The square was constructed in 1874 by engineer Giovanni Battista Talotti and features at its centre a stunning statue of the goddess Aphrodite. This statue is revered by fishermen as a symbol of protection.

Just a few minutes from the square, the restaurant Caupona awaits you for your lunch break.
This establishment is a typical Sicilian tavern, offering a menu based on fresh fish sourced from the local market and their renowned Trapanese couscous. It is a stop you can't miss if you wish to experience the authentic flavours of Sicily.

Now the itinerary will take you to the Church of the Holy Souls of Purgatory.
Construction of the church began in 1688, during the Spanish rule, following a design by Don Pietro Castro. It was completed by the Trapanese architect Giovanni Biagio Amico in 1712.
This Baroque masterpiece was severely damaged during the Second World War but was renovated and reopened to the public in the 1960s.
It houses one of the city's treasures, 'The Mysteries', a collection of 20 sculptures that are paraded through the city during the procession of Holy Week.

Close to the Church, another jewel awaits: the city's dome, San Lorenzo Cathedral.
Constructed under the directive of Alfonso the Magnanimous in 1421, the church was granted parish status in the latter part of the 15th century. In 1844, with the establishment of the Diocese of Trapani, it became the diocese's episcopal seat.
Today's appearance of the Cathedral is the result of 18th-century renovations by architect Giovanni Biagio Amico. He enhanced the structure with domes, balustrades, and a portico flanked by bell towers.

This is one of the oldest gates among the four that encircle the city.
Constructed in the 13th century by Giacomo of Aragona, it is crowned with the Clock Tower, which was integrated a few years later.
In fact, this tower houses one of Europe's oldest astronomical clocks, crafted by Giuseppe Mennella. It features a sundial and a lunarium, the latter having a hole at the centre representing the planet Earth.
The astronomical clock displays the apparent motion of the Sun through the various houses of the Zodiac, and also marks the equinoxes and solstices.

The Tramontana Walls are remnants of the old defensive walls that once encircled the city during the Spanish reign.
Constructed in the 13th century by King Giacomo of Aragona, they stretch almost a kilometre from the fish market square and run along the coast, offering a splendid view of the sea.

Continuing your seaside walk, you will reach the most prominent part of the city, home to the Ligny Tower Museum.
The museum is housed in an old tower, constructed in 1671 by Captain Claude Lamoral as a military outpost to protect the city from pirates.
In 1983, the Museum was inaugurated, showcasing archaeological finds from the Prehistoric era and maritime conflicts.

It is affectionately called the 'Little Square of Sunset'!
This delightful, tiny spot is nestled between the Ligny Tower area and the fishermen's houses, offering a tranquil and serene view of the landscape.
It's the perfect place to rest for a while, feeling as if you're immersed in a postcard, often accompanied by the melodic blend of guitars and the sound of the waves.

Not far from this scenic spot, and close to the fishing bay, you'll find your dinner location: 'Lo Scoglio', meaning 'the rock'.
The restaurant, featuring a terrace with a view, serves fresh fish-based dishes accompanied by a selection of wines to enhance your evening experience.

After dinner, you’ll return to the car park to pick up your car and head to the apartment where you will spend the night. This building is conveniently situated just 4 minutes from the coast and 5 minutes from the city centre.