Erice

Erice is a small, historic town located on the top of the mountain above the city of Trapani. We arrived here at the end of November and were almost alone.

The first thing that tourists see is the bell tower (former watchtower, 1282-1314) of the main cathedral Duomo dell'Asunta. Behind the church located the remains of the city fortifications, which were built BC by the Phoenicians. Of course, the walls were restored.


View of Erice from the tower


Unfortunately, antennas spoil the views of the Trapani.


The views from the cable car were better.


The town is full of small streets, be sure to take a map with you.














Photo-cat


Visited one of the courtyards


The most interesting building in Erice is a small castle Torretta Pepoli. It was built in 1870 for scientific researches and meditation.


The viewpoint above the castle offers the best panoramas of the coastline.




Erice has also a big castle (1240). To the left on this photo is a city park with several historic fountains.




Getting there: Trapani is better to reach from Palermo by train or bus. We came by bus and stopped at the Via Marsala street. Then went on foot to the cable car to Erice (2.2 km). The cable car is closed from mid-January to mid-March (opening times and ticket price).


If you miss this stop then you need to go along the street Via Giovanbattista Fardella. In this case it is better to take a taxi. Back to the bus stop from Trapani to Palermo we also went on foot.


Here is some information about the Trapani buses that go to the lower cable car station.

The bus stop to Palermo is located on the square in front of the railway station.