Marsala is the largest municipality in the province of Trapani; its historic centre, with Arab influences, stands on the ruins of the ancient Punic city of Lilibeo. It is a city with a lot of history, but also with a crystal clear sea and beautiful beaches, including Punta Tramontana, San Teodoro, Marausa and Lido Signorino. It is famous for the landing of Garibaldi's Thousand and for its wine, which bears the same name as the city.
If you are looking for ideas on what to see in Marsala, here are some tips.
First of all, you can start from the historical centre, which maintains some remains of the ancient city walls, including Porta Garibaldi (where Giuseppe Garibaldi and the Thousand passed on 11 May 1860), and Porta Nuova (originally there were four gates) . Along the main street (via XI Maggio also known as "il Cassaro") you can admire beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, palaces and many shops for shopping.
In the elegant Piazza della Repubblica, defined as the living room of Marsala, stands the Cathedral (or Mother Church), built during the 1600s where a Norman church once stood. It is characterized by a Baroque facade with two lateral bell towers; inside it houses valuable works of art. Not far away we also find Palazzo VII Aprile, with its particular architectural structure. Also worth seeing are Piazzetta Purgatorio, with the church of the same name, and Piazza dell'Addolorata.
The itinerary continues with Villa Cavallotti, a pleasant place for walking and relaxing. The promenade that leads to Capo Boero, the westernmost point of Sicily, is also ideal for walks, from where the beautiful Egadi islands can be seen in the distance: Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo. From the port, boat tours, excursions and daily mini-cruises depart daily, to discover this enchanting archipelago.
During your stay, the Museum of Tapestries, the Archaeological Museum and the Art Gallery, housed within the beautiful complex of the Carmine Convent, are also worth a visit.
Also to be put on the agenda is a stop in the cellars, where you can taste the delicious Marsala doc and other typical wines.
In the surrounding area we recommend seeing the Archaeological Park, also known as Insula Romana, where you can admire interesting vestiges of antiquity.
Another destination outside the city are the Saline dello Stagnone: a paradise made up of white dunes and ancient mills. From here it is also possible to discover the beautiful island of Mozia.
Now that you know what to see in Marsala, all you have to do is enjoy your visit!
