Trapani, nestled on Sicily's western coast, is a city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. Its strategic location has made it a cultural and commercial hub under various rulers throughout the centuries. Today, this rich heritage offers a unique blend of art, traditions, and breathtaking vistas. For your visit, we suggest an itinerary highlighting what to see in Trapani for an authentic experience of the city.
The vibrant heart of Trapani lies in its historic center, characterized by magnificent Baroque buildings that once belonged to the city's noble families, and majestic churches with striking Baroque aesthetics, adorned with colorful marbles. Among the most beautiful religious edifices are the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Church of the Jesuits along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main thoroughfare of the historic center; the Church of the Holy Souls of Purgatory, which houses the statuary groups of the Misteri; and the Church of San Pietro on Corso Italia, where you can hear the oldest functioning organ in Europe.
In the older part of the city, away from the grand palaces, the narrow streets whisper tales of the city's maritime tradition, shaped over centuries by its fishermen. A symbol of this passion for the sea, intertwined with the city's layout, is undoubtedly the former Piazza Mercato del Pesce (Fish Market Square): an iconic space that once hosted the bustling fish market and has now been transformed into a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. From there, you can stroll along the Tramontana Walls, to the north of the city, and admire the sea directly from within the city limits.
However, it's at Trapani's westernmost point that you can witness truly breathtaking views. Flanked by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the right and the Mediterranean Sea to the left, Torre di Ligny is an ancient Spanish watchtower situated at the city's furthest tip. Today, it's open to visitors as an anthropological museum, offering the chance to gaze at the endless expanse of the sea from the tower's summit.
Trapani's history is deeply connected to faith and Christian devotion, particularly towards the figure of Maria SS of Trapani (Our Lady of Trapani). A sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary is located a short distance from the city center. Legend recounts that the statue of the Madonna di Trapani, a large and precious marble sculpture depicting the Madonna with the Child Jesus, arrived by sea. Placed on a cart, the oxen pulling it stopped at the exact spot where the Sanctuary of Maria SS of Trapani now stands. Even today, the statue of Mary is enshrined in the sanctuary and venerated by the local community as the city's patron saint.
Within the premises of the Carmelite convent attached to the church is now the Regional Museum Agostino Pepoli, named after the noble patron who donated part of his collection to the museum. This museum is an essential stop to discover the goldsmithing artistry of the Trapani region. Jewels and coral artifacts are a renowned hallmark of the city, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of local artisans to the world, both past and present. The museum also houses works of sacred art and medieval sculptures, paintings by Sicilian artists, and archaeological finds.
Trapani boasts beautiful beaches, ideal for those seeking to enjoy the crystal-clear sea and the Sicilian sun. The beach of San Giuliano is the longest on the coast: its blue waters lap against golden sands, and the shallow depths make it perfect for enjoying the sea to its fullest. I Mulini Resort is situated directly on San Giuliano beach, with its private bathing area shaded by the old mill. The resort's beach services are exclusively for guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the marine landscape alongside the comforts offered by our hotel with beach access.
Another beach worth visiting in the area is Porta Ossuna Beach, a small sandy cove nestled right in the historic center, beneath the Tramontana Walls. We have a dedicated guide with details on all the coves and beaches to explore in Trapani. Discover them all.
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