The Medieval Town of Erice in the Heart of Sicily
Sicily is a land of extraordinary beauty and rich history. Here you can find breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures that tell the story of millennia of civilization. From the imposing Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, dominating the horizon, to the golden beaches along the coast, such as San Vito Lo Capo and the coves of the Zingaro Nature Reserve, every corner of the island holds a discovery. Sicilian cities are like open-air museums. A few examples? Siracusa with its Greek-Roman heritage; Noto and the Baroque architecture; Cefalù with its striking Norman cathedral; and Palermo, the vibrant capital. Among these must-see places lies Erice, a town that seems suspended in time, with ancient walls and panoramas embracing both the sea and the surrounding countryside.
The History of Erice
Erice is a medieval village perched on a mountain about 750 meters above sea level, in the province of Trapani, western Sicily. Its origins are very ancient: it is believed to have been a settlement during the Phoenician era and, in Greek times, a site of an important sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite (or Venus Ericina).
Over the centuries, Erice has seen the passage of many civilizations—from the Carthaginians to the Romans, and later the Normans, who turned it into a defensive stronghold.
Top Sights in Erice
The historic center of Erice is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, quiet squares, but also panoramic viewpoints offering spectacular views. Highlights include:
The Castle of Venus, Medieval Walls and City Gates
The Castle of Venus is undoubtedly Erice’s symbol.
Built by the Normans in the 12th century on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Venus Ericina, this fortress dominates the mountaintop where the town stands. With its imposing battlements and watchtowers, the castle offers 360-degree views of the Gulf of Trapani, the Egadi Islands, and the surrounding countryside.
The ancient wall, fully restored, reveal the strategic importance of the town in controlling the surrounding territory. Passing through the ancient gates, such as Porta Trapani and Porta Spada, feels like stepping back in time into the city’s historical defenses.
The Pepoli Tower
The Pepoli Tower is an ancient watchtower along Erice’s walls. Originally used to monitor enemy movements, it now houses the Wax Museum, featuring life-like statues of historical figures and scenes of local life. From the top, one enjoys one of the most striking panoramic views of Trapani, the salt pans, and the open sea.
The Mother Church (Duomo of Erice)
The Mother Church, dedicated to Saint Julian, is the town’s main place of worship.
Built in the 13th century, its structure is sober yet refined, reflecting the spiritual soul of the village. Inside, visitors will find sacred artworks, including altarpieces and sculptures, while the towered bell tower is one of Erice’s most characteristic skyline features. Visiting the Duomo also allows one to witness moments of prayer and tradition that continue to animate the community’s religious life.
The Church of Saint John the Baptist
A short distance from the center, this little-known but charming church houses frescoes and sacred artworks that reflect Erice’s religious devotion and artistic heritage over the centuries. It also offers a calm and spiritual atmosphere, perfect for reflective visits.
The Public Garden
Erice’s Public Garden is a green oasis in the heart of the town. Amid centuries-old trees and seasonal blooms, visitors can enjoy a relaxing break. The garden provides benches and shaded areas ideal for quiet moments, strolling with children, or reading in a peaceful environment away from the tourist bustle.
Artisan Shops and Pastry Shops
Erice is also famous for its artisan shops, where traditional crafts have been passed down for generations. The pastry shops are a delight for sweet lovers: the “genovesi,” a shortcrust pastry filled with ricotta cream and dusted with powdered sugar, are the town’s signature treat. Walking the streets, one encounters workshops for ceramics, weaving, and honey production, reflecting the material culture of the region.
The Cordici Museum
For those wishing to delve into Erice’s millennia-old history, the Cordici Museum is essential. It preserves archaeological finds from local excavations, showcasing the various eras and cultures that have shaped the Erice hill, from the Phoenician to the Roman and medieval periods. The museum is a small treasure trove of valuable evidence for understanding the town’s past.
Things to Do in Erice
In addition to exploring the town centers, once in Erice you can also taste the local cuisine. Erice’s restaurants serve typical Sicilian dishes made with fresh local ingredients, such as fish couscous, panelle, and almond-based sweets. If you want to buy some of these products you can go to the local market.
Nature and hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Rocca of Erice, a less frequented but charming area. Trails wind through greenery, offering a quieter, more rugged experience away from the tourist crowds. From Erice, it’s also easy to organize trips to Trapani or explore the nearby Egadi Islands, perfect for sea lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts.
However, one thing you should definitely do while in Erice is enjoy the sunsets over the Trapani salt pans. These centuries-old salt flats, still active today, create a spectacular landscape of shimmering white basins separated by thin strips of land. The contrast between the bright salt pools, the windmills scattered across the horizon, and the blue of the Mediterranean makes this view truly unforgettable. At sunset, the basins reflect shades of gold, pink, and orange. If you want a closer look, you can also plan a short trip down to the Trapani coastline to visit the salt pans up close and learn about the traditional salt-harvesting techniques still used today.
How to Reach Erice
Erice is easily accessible by car. The route is well signposted, leading to a parking area outside the town walls, from where the village is reached on foot. As an alternative, from central Trapani, a panoramic cable car connects the city to Erice, offering spectacular views during the ascent.
