Marsala, overlooking Sicily's western coast, is a city of extraordinary charm woven from history, nature, and wine tradition. With a rich past shaped by Phoenician, Greek, and Roman influences, a lagoon of rare beauty, and a wine famous worldwide, Marsala is a must-see destination for those eager to explore the wonders of Western Sicily.
The oldest traces of Marsala's history lie on the island of Mozia, an ancient Phoenician colony nestled within the Stagnone Lagoon. This archaeological site reveals the presence of the Phoenicians in Sicily, dating back to the 8th century BC, and the profound impact their rule had on the territory, including the establishment of the saltpans.
Mozia was an important commercial and strategic city, encircled by strong walls and boasting a natural harbor that facilitated trade with other Mediterranean civilizations. Today, the Archaeological Park of Mozia allows visitors to admire the remnants of this glorious past: the defensive walls, the necropolis, the "Cappiddazzu" sanctuary, and the renowned Giovinetto di Mozia (Youth of Mozia), a marble statue of rare beauty housed in the Whitaker Museum, named after the patron who first unearthed Mozia's archaeological remains.
Reaching the island is a captivating experience in itself: small boats traverse the shallow, brackish waters of the lagoon, offering a journey through time amid history and pristine nature.
The Stagnone Lagoon, a protected area of extraordinary beauty, is one of Marsala's most picturesque corners. This unique ecosystem is home to ancient salt flats, islets rich in history, and a fascinating array of flora and fauna. The landscape is dominated by the saltpans, creating breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset.
However, the lagoon is not just a place of exceptional scenic beauty and natural wealth. The consistent winds that sweep across the lagoon make this area ideal for water sports enthusiasts, particularly kitesurfing and windsurfing. Marsala is, in fact, considered one of Europe's top destinations for these activities, thanks to the lagoon's perfect conditions. Each year, the coast hosts festivals dedicated to water sports lovers who gather from all over the world to glide across the shallow waters of the Stagnone amidst spectacular stunts and unforgettable sunsets.
Marsala is synonymous with its wine. Marsala DOC is one of the world's most famous and appreciated fortified wines, with a history dating back to the 18th century when English merchant John Woodhouse discovered the extraordinary qualities of this amber nectar and decided to export it to England.
This liqueur wine is distinguished by its intense and complex taste, with notes of dried fruit, caramel, and spices. There are several varieties of Marsala, classified according to aging and sweetness: dry, semi-dry, and sweet. Among the most prized versions are Marsala Vergine and Marsala Superiore Riserva, which are aged in oak barrels for several years.
Visiting the historic cellars of Marsala is an essential stop on your trip to Sicily. Wineries such as Florio, Pellegrino, and Donnafugata welcome visitors, offering tastings and guided tours to uncover the secrets of wine production. A glass of Marsala paired with aged cheeses or traditional desserts, such as Sicilian cassata, is the perfect way to conclude a journey into the heart of this land rich in history and traditions.
Suite with whirlpool bath, panoramic view, in front of Egadi island, a glass of wine in an old salt house
Immerse yourself in the millennia by visiting the Doric temple and the rock-cut theatre
The typical dishes to discover Trapani at the table
All the coves and beaches between scogliose ravines and golden stretches of sand
The origins of the village, the 100 churches and the confectionery tradition handed down over the centuries
Discover the manual harvesting and the colorful magic of the sunset between flamingos and windmills
All about Favignana, Levanzo, Marettimo and how to reach the islands
La nostra guida alla città di Trapani tra chiese, monumenti musei, spiagge e passeggiate in centro.