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Italy, Sicily: Erice – On the Top of Mythical Mountain of Eryx Italy, Sicily: Erice – On the Top of Mythical Mountain of Eryx
Published: 28.12.2020
Sicily is the largest Mediterranean island, with an area of 25,426 km² occupying 8.4% of Italy. It is about 3 times smaller than the Czech Republic. The way here is very easy. Probably every second airline flies here.
Our first trip from the airport is to the city of Trapani, which lies on the west coast of Sicily and its important place is the port. And it really lives in it, fishermen offer their catches, people come here to buy various fruits, vegetables, or even various electronics and other small items. All this can be bought here. Some come here to just talk and enjoy the different catches. The people on that side are nice and friendly. We will buy something here too and go to Eric.
Erice is a small medieval town, also located on the west side of Sicily, a few kilometers north of Trapani. It is located 751 meters above sea level on a hill, which is surrounded on all sides by a lowland. The views here are really beautiful. In addition to views of the traditional Sicilian landscape and the shores, we also see the distant Egadi Islands. This city is said to be one of the oldest in Sicily, as evidenced not only by the preserved fortifications from the period of the famous ancient Carthage, but also by the typical local atmosphere, which consists of narrow streets with traditional stone paving. The gateway to the city is Porta Trapani and next door is the Gothic church Chiesa Matrice. Everything here is terribly charming. We intertwine in all possible and impossible alleys. We peek into all corners, we love and overall we enjoy the local atmosphere. It's incredibly clean everywhere. You can buy a sweet delicacy on every corner, because this place is famous for its traditional sweet pastries.
We are fascinated by how such a small town perched high on a hill is full of fragrant cafes, restaurants and shops with local creations. We come to Piazza San Giovanni, where there are perhaps the most beautiful views. On one side we see the Quartiere Spagnolo and on the other side the castle of Torreta Pepoli and Castello di Venere. Castello di Verde also has the Giardino di Ballo public gardens, which are well worth a visit. There is a gentleman with an accordion on the street, who we really enjoy. He has a very ornate carriage with a horse and sings. His horse, which is wearing all sorts of jingles, bounces and stomps into the rhythm. And as it jumps, the whole jingle rings, rings and completes the great atmosphere of this city.
You will fall in love with Erice, there is something for everyone. Historical monuments, cafes, restaurants and last but not least, famous views of the surrounding area.
GPS: 38°02'08.2"N 12°35'30.6"E
Text and photos: Kateřina Janovská
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