Culture of Trapani. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Santuario Dell Anunziata remains the main historical symbol of Trapani. It is also famous under the following names: the Basilica-Sanctuary of Maria Santissima Annunziata or just “Madonna of Trapani”. The building of the first church on the site of the basilica started in 1315, but the church was ready only in 1332. The modern basilica is a harmonious combination of different architectural styles – that is quite typical for architectural landmarks in Sicily. In the design of the gorgeous basilica, it’s easy to notice elements of Gothic and Renaissance styles that are skillfully mixed with oriental motifs. The magnificent statue of Madonna that dates back to the 14th century is, without a doubt, the main relic of the basilica. Famous Italian sculptor Nino Pisano is the author of the sculpture. There is an interesting story of how the statue appeared in the basilica. It was a gift of a Pisan knight who found shelter and protection from the chase on the sacred land. For many centuries, the gorgeous basilica has been an important national symbol for all inhabitants of the city. Needless to say, it is the traditional venue for celebrations during various religious holidays.

Travelers keen on the antique history will be more than pleased with their visit to Museo Pepoli. This museum exhibits collections of priceless archaeological artifacts that mostly belong to the ancient Greece and Rome epochs. A part of the museum has been transformed into a picture gallery that exhibits works of the most famous Sicilian artists. There are halls with unusual items, for example, the exhibition of handmade coral goods and decorations. Several hundred years ago, coral items were worth their weight in gold and were extremely popular with foreign merchants. Nowadays, it’s prohibited to make souvenirs from corals, so it’s only possible to look at these items in the museum.

Simply no traveler in Trapani can fail to visit Vittorio Emmanuele Square that is also the beginning of one of the most famous streets of the city - Corso Vittorio Emmanuele. This part of Trapani is rich in architectural landmarks with Palazzo della Gidecca being one of the most famous. It’s hard not to notice the palace as it has a very eye-catching décor of the façade. In the 17th – 19th centuries, only the wealthiest people in Trapani could build their mansions on that street. There is also an important landmark nearby - Church of Purgatorio. This church is famous because of ancient statues that are exhibited inside. During the Holy Week, these statues are taken outside for a solemn procession on the central streets of Trapani. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

One of the most notable landmarks of the 17th century, Cathedral of San Lorenzo is another must-visit place. When describing the oldest buildings in Trapani, it is important to mention Church of St. Francis of Assisi. This church dates back to the 13th century and is famous for an important historic artifact – an ancient tombstone with inscriptions in Latin and Armenian. There are several theories about this tombstone. In accordance with one of them, members of the Armenian diaspora, who lived in Trapani, made the first religious landmark on the site of the church.

Not everyone knows that salt has been one of the main symbols of Trapani. Actually, it was the “white gold” that fastened the prosperity and development of the city. The Phoenicians were the first ones to start the production of salt in this region. Nowadays, ancient salterns have become another landmark of this wonderful city. The ancient salterns are large complexes, many buildings in which are still in a good condition. During an excursion in this place, visitors will see old mills and pools used to extract salt from the sea water. There is even a museum dedicated to salt, Museo del Sale, an excursion in which will be no less entertaining. The exploration of magnificent landmarks of Trapani promises to become an unforgettable adventure.