Castles of Sicily: Stone Sentinels of a Timeless Island (Part 3)
- The Sicilian Wanderer
- 2 days ago
- 38 min read

With the journey through central and northern Sicily complete, we now turn to the south-east and far west of the island — regions where castles embrace the sea, the countryside, and the winds of history.
In Ragusa, the magnificent Donnafugata Castle welcomes us with its 122 rooms and aristocratic halls, a true palace of nobility and legend. Moving northward, the province of Siracusa reveals treasures of incomparable variety: the ancient Euryalus Fortress, one of the finest examples of Greek military engineering; the mighty Castello Maniace at the tip of Ortigia; and the coastal towers that once defended against pirates.
Further west, in Trapani province, medieval atmospheres come alive in the Castle of Erice, perched among the clouds where Venus once had her temple. The coastal bastions of Castellammare del Golfo, Salemi, and Partanna tell of centuries of warfare, while the windswept islands of Marettimo and Favignana guard the sea with their lonely watchtowers.
This third and final part of the journey through Sicily’s castles is a voyage between land and sea, myth and history — a celebration of the island’s eternal role as a crossroads of civilizations, where every fortress still stands as a beacon of power and beauty.
📍 Province of Ragusa
📍 Province of Siracusa
Maniace Castle (Ortigia)
Brucoli Castle
Castello Eurialo (Greek fortress)
Buccheri Castle (ruins)
Augusta — Fortress of Vittoria
Swabian Tower of Vendicari
Spanish Fort (Portopalo di Capo Passero)
📍 Province of Trapani
Erice Castle (Venus Castle & Torri del Balio)
Conti di Modica Castle (Alcamo)
Partanna — Grifeo Castle
Salemi Castle
Inici Castle (Castellammare del Golfo)
Castello di Terra (Trapani, now lost)
Punta di Troia Castle (Marettimo, Egadi Islands)
Favignana — Florio Palace (not a castle proper, but notable)
Castles in province of Ragusa
🏰 Donnafugata Castle — A Noble Dream in the Sicilian Countryside
Driving from Ragusa to Santa Croce Camerina, among rolling hills and centuries-old carob groves, suddenly appears one of the most majestic and romantic residences in Sicily: the Castello di Donnafugata. Unlike the austere medieval fortresses of the island, Donnafugata is not primarily a castle of war, but rather a palatial country residence, a stage of luxury, politics, art, and legend.
With its 122 rooms, sprawling gardens, and eclectic façade, the castle embodies the grandeur of Sicilian nobility in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it stands not only as a monument of history, but also as a cultural icon, immortalized in literature, cinema, and television.
📜 History of the Castle
The origins of Donnafugata Castle date back to the mid-17th century, when the estate was acquired by Vincenzo Arezzo La Rocca. Over time, the family expanded and transformed the building, adapting it to the tastes and ambitions of each generation.
The most significant changes came in the 19th century, under Baron Corrado Arezzo De Spuches, a powerful aristocrat, politician, and senator of the Kingdom of Italy. He remodeled the façade, giving the castle its present appearance: a harmonious fusion of styles, blending Venetian Gothic loggias, late Renaissance towers, and neo-classical decorative details.
The name Donnafugata itself (“The Woman Who Fled”) is wrapped in legend. Popular stories link it to a noblewoman held captive in the castle who escaped — some say Queen Bianca of Navarre in the 15th century, others invent romantic tales of love and betrayal. Though historically uncertain, the legend adds to the aura of mystery that still surrounds the estate.
🧱 Architecture & Interiors
The castle is a labyrinth of 122 rooms, each with its own story, preserved with period furnishings and decorations. Among the highlights:
The Grand Staircase: Flanked by neoclassical statues, it leads visitors up to the noble floor.
Hall of Coats of Arms: Adorned with the heraldic symbols of Sicily’s greatest families, celebrating noble alliances.
Hall of Mirrors: A masterpiece of stuccoes and reflections, recalling the opulence of European palaces.
Billiard Room and Music Room: Decorated with trompe-l’œil landscapes that expand the walls into imaginary horizons.
Princess of Navarre’s Bedroom: Richly furnished, steeped in romantic legend.
Ladies’ Drawing Room & Smoking Room: Spaces reflecting refined 19th-century tastes, the latter decorated with whimsical motifs of pipes and tobacco.
Walking through the castle feels like entering a time capsule of Sicilian aristocratic life, where every room tells a different story of politics, leisure, and noble rituals.
🌳 The Gardens of Donnafugata
The park surrounding the castle is itself a work of art — a 20-hectare garden designed to impress and entertain. It includes:
A neoclassical temple and elegant fountains
A “coffee house” pavilion with Ionic columns and panoramic loggias
Shady avenues lined with carob, palm, and citrus trees
A stone labyrinth, a playful addition where guests could amuse themselves in the spirit of 19th-century romanticism
The gardens are not just decorative, but part of the castle’s theatricality, offering noble visitors an outdoor stage for promenades, encounters, and celebrations.
🎬 Donnafugata in Cinema & Culture
Donnafugata Castle is more than a monument — it is a cultural icon.
It appeared in Visconti’s “The Leopard” (Il Gattopardo), symbolizing the splendor and decline of Sicilian nobility.
The Taviani brothers filmed part of “Kaos” here, in the episode La Giara.
It frequently serves as a backdrop in the series “Inspector Montalbano”, adding to its fame among visitors worldwide.
Its image has come to represent the romantic and aristocratic Sicily, both real and imagined.
📍 Visitor Information
Location: 15 km from Ragusa, near Santa Croce Camerina, southeastern Sicily
Opening Hours:
• Summer: daily 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Winter: daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: About €6–8, with reductions for students, seniors, and groups
Duration: Allow 2–3 hours to explore both the castle interiors and the gardens
Access: Reachable by car from Ragusa (~20 minutes); parking available near the site
✅ Travel Tips
Plan to visit in the late afternoon, when the golden light makes the façade glow.
Bring a camera: the Gothic loggia and gardens are among the most photogenic spots in Sicily.
Combine your visit with a tour of Ragusa Ibla and Modica, to immerse yourself in the Baroque heart of the Val di Noto.
Check the local calendar: exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events are often hosted inside the castle.
In summer, the gardens provide cool shade, perfect for relaxing after exploring the interiors.
🌟 A Palace of Legends and Grandeur
The Castle of Donnafugata is not a fortress of war, but a stage of aristocratic life — a place where architecture, legend, and leisure intertwine. From the elegance of its halls to the romantic charm of its gardens, it remains the largest and most refined noble country residence in southeastern Sicily.
Walking through Donnafugata means stepping into a world of noble intrigue, romantic myth, and Sicilian elegance, where history meets legend under the eternal Mediterranean sun.
Castles in province of Syracuse
🏰 Castello Maniace — The Crown of Ortygia
At the very tip of the island of Ortygia, where the Ionian Sea crashes against ancient rocks, stands one of Sicily’s most magnificent fortresses: the Castello Maniace. Built in the first half of the 13th century by order of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, this fortress is not only a masterpiece of medieval military architecture but also a living symbol of Siracusa’s long and turbulent history.
📜 History of the Castle
The site takes its name from the Byzantine general Giorgio Maniace, who in 1038 led the reconquest of Ortygia from the Arabs. But the castle as we see it today owes its creation to the genius of Richard of Lentini, Frederick II’s trusted architect, who also designed the Ursino Castle in Catania. Built around 1232–1240, Maniace Castle was conceived as a fortified royal residence, a stronghold that united imperial grandeur with military might.
The castle’s strategic location made it a guardian of the sea approaches to Siracusa, at a time when the city was still a vital Mediterranean port. Over the centuries, it served not only as a military bastion but also as a royal palace, hosting emperors, kings, and viceroys.
In 1693, the great earthquake that devastated much of southeastern Sicily damaged parts of the fortress, and later reconstructions added touches of Baroque style to the surrounding bastions. In the 16th century, it had already been strengthened with additional fortifications to adapt to cannon warfare.
Today, after major restoration works, Maniace Castle has regained much of its medieval splendor, standing once more as one of the most imposing monuments of Ortygia.
🧱 Architecture & Highlights
The castle is a square-plan fortress, each corner dominated by a cylindrical tower, its geometry reflecting Frederick II’s love of harmony and rational design.
The Entrance: Cross a stone bridge to reach the monumental main portal, one of the most beautiful in Sicily. It features a pointed Islamic-inspired arch, lined in polychrome marble, crowned by the imperial coat of arms of Charles V. On either side, two niches once held bronze rams of Hellenistic origin, symbols of Siracusa’s classical past.
The Great Hall: Inside, a vast single hall unfolds, supported by 25 elegant cross-vaults resting on slender stone columns. At each of the four corners, monumental fireplaces testify to the castle’s dual function as both fortress and residence.
The Bastions: Added in the 16th century, the outer defenses encircle the medieval heart, adapting the fortress to artillery warfare.
Piazzale d’Armi (Parade Ground): The large open courtyard, now used for exhibitions and cultural events, offers a unique stage where medieval walls meet the Sicilian sky.
Sea Views: From the castle, the views extend endlessly over the Ionian Sea — a reminder of its strategic role in watching over Ortygia’s maritime approaches.
🌑 Legends and Curiosities
According to legend, the castle’s name (Maniace) was linked not only to the Byzantine general but also to a fugitive noblewoman who sought refuge here, echoing the tales of noble escapes common in Sicilian folklore.
Local tradition tells of hidden underground passages that once connected the fortress to the heart of Ortygia — though none have been conclusively identified.
Some say that the ghost of a noble lady in white still roams the halls, especially near the main gate, her presence tied to one of the many tragic love stories whispered through Siracusa’s history.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Southern tip of Ortygia Island, Siracusa, Sicily
Opening Hours:
• Summer: daily 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
• Winter: daily 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays and major holidays
Entry Fee: Around €4–5, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups
Duration: 1–1.5 hours for a full visit of the fortress and grounds
Access: A short walk from Ortygia’s historic center; parking available outside the island with pedestrian bridges leading in
✅ Travel Tips
Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the changing light over the sea.
Check the cultural calendar: concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances often animate the Piazzale d’Armi, creating magical evenings within the medieval walls.
Bring a camera: the main portal and the sea panoramas are among the most photographed spots in Siracusa.
Combine the visit with a tour of Ortygia’s treasures — from the Duomo to the Fountain of Arethusa — for a full immersion in Siracusa’s history.
🌊 The Fortress on the Edge of the Sea
The Castello Maniace is more than a fortress — it is a symbol of imperial ambition, medieval engineering, and Sicilian resilience. From Frederick II’s dream of a rational, majestic stronghold to its role as a bastion against invaders, and today as a cultural stage, it has always been a place where power and beauty converge.
Standing under its marble archway or gazing out from its towers, you feel the centuries of kings, soldiers, and legends that have passed through its gates — a timeless echo of Ortygia’s glory.
🏰 Brucoli Castle — Guardian of the Bay
At the edge of a picturesque fishing village near Augusta, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Ionian Sea, stands the Castle of Brucoli. Though smaller and less monumental than other Sicilian fortresses, this castle is a charming coastal stronghold, a sentinel that has protected fishermen, sailors, and merchants for centuries. Its compact structure and seaside setting make it one of the most evocative gems along Sicily’s eastern coast.
📜 History of the Castle
The Castle of Brucoli was built in the 15th century during the Aragonese domination of Sicily. Its earliest form consisted of a single square tower, a defensive watchtower designed to control the bay and protect against pirate incursions — a constant threat along Sicily’s coasts in the late Middle Ages.
During the 16th century, the castle was enlarged to meet the needs of modern warfare. Circular corner towers and fortified walls were added around the original keep, giving it a more complete defensive system. These modifications transformed it into a fortified outpost integrated into the wider coastal defense network of eastern Sicily.
Though never as grand as castles like Maniace or Ursino, Brucoli had great strategic importance due to its location: at the mouth of a natural inlet that served as a small port, essential for trade and fishing.
🧱 Architecture & Highlights
The castle blends medieval sobriety with Renaissance military innovation:
Central Keep: The original 15th-century square tower, the heart of the fortress.
Circular Bastions: Added in the 16th century, they flank the central tower and gave protection against artillery.
Curtain Walls: Enclosing the courtyard, they created a small but effective defensive enclosure.
Sea Views: The castle dominates both the inlet of Brucoli and the open sea — a reminder of its function as a maritime sentinel.
Unlike the palatial interiors of Donnafugata or Castelbuono, Brucoli Castle is stark and functional, reflecting its role as a military garrison rather than a noble residence.
🌊 Legends and Curiosities
Tradition tells of underground passages linking the castle to the village and even to coastal caves, though these remain part of local lore.
Its silhouette against the sea has inspired painters and photographers alike, making it a favorite subject for romantic coastal landscapes.
The castle often hosted small garrisons of soldiers tasked with repelling pirates and corsairs who raided Sicily’s shores.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Brucoli, near Augusta (province of Siracusa), Sicily
Opening Hours: The castle is generally open for guided visits, cultural events, and exhibitions; times may vary, so it’s best to check locally.
Entry Fee: Usually €3–5, depending on events; sometimes free during festivals.
Duration: 30–60 minutes, as the site is compact but atmospheric.
Access: A short walk from Brucoli’s charming historic center; parking available in the village.
✅ Travel Tips
Combine the visit with a stroll through Brucoli’s seafront, full of trattorias specializing in fresh fish.
Visit at sunset, when the castle and sea glow in golden light.
Don’t miss the small lighthouse nearby, another scenic spot for photography.
The castle is often used as a venue for art shows, concerts, and weddings — check if there are events during your trip.
🌟 A Coastal Sentinel
The Castle of Brucoli may not boast the vast halls of Caccamo or the aristocratic grandeur of Donnafugata, but it has its own unique charm: that of a coastal fortress watching over fishermen and sailors for centuries.
Here, on the edge of the sea, one can still imagine the watchmen scanning the horizon for sails, ready to defend the small community behind its walls. Today, instead of cannons, the castle welcomes visitors with history, views, and the timeless poetry of the Sicilian coast.
🏛️ Castello Eurialo — The Greek Masterpiece of Military Architecture
Just a few kilometers from the center of Siracusa, hidden among gentle hills and olive groves, lies one of the most extraordinary fortresses of the ancient world: the Castello Eurialo (Euryalus Fortress). Unlike the medieval castles scattered across Sicily, this is not a Norman or Aragonese stronghold, but a Greek military marvel, built over 2,400 years ago.
Its massive stone walls, underground galleries, and defensive ditches testify to the genius of Dionysius the Elder, the tyrant of Siracusa who transformed the city into one of the greatest powers of the Mediterranean.
📜 History of the Fortress
Construction of the fortress began around 402 BC, during the reign of Dionysius I, who feared Carthaginian invasion. The site was chosen for its strategic position on the Epipolae plateau, the western edge of Siracusa, from which one could control all land access to the city.
The Eurialo fortress was the keystone of the mighty walls of Siracusa, which stretched for over 27 kilometers — among the longest defensive systems in the ancient world. These fortifications made Siracusa almost impregnable and allowed it to resist Carthaginian and later Roman assaults.
The name Eurialo derives from the Greek Euryalos, meaning “broad nail” or “projecting headland”, a reference to the spur of land on which the fortress was built.
Even after the fall of Greek Siracusa, the fortress remained important: the Romans, Byzantines, and Normans reused and modified its structures.
🧱 Architecture & Features
Though partly in ruins, the complexity of the fortress is still impressive today. It is considered one of the most complete examples of Greek military engineering.
Curtain Walls: Thick stone walls of limestone blocks, still visible, defended the approaches.
Moats and Ditches: Three massive defensive ditches cut into the rock slowed attackers and made siege engines useless.
Galleries and Tunnels: A network of underground passages allowed troops to move unseen and quickly reach critical points during battle. Some of these galleries are still accessible to visitors.
Bastions and Towers: Projecting towers gave defenders control over blind spots and allowed effective flanking attacks.
Gates: The western entrance was designed with complex bends to trap enemies in narrow spaces, a sign of advanced tactical thinking.
Walking through its ruins, one can still sense the immense scale and strategic brilliance of the fortress.
🌄 What to See Today
Visitors to the Eurialo Castle can explore:
The remains of the main defensive walls
The triple moat system, carved directly into the rock
Sections of the underground galleries, atmospheric and evocative
Scenic views from the plateau, stretching over the surrounding countryside and towards the city of Siracusa
The site retains a timeless, evocative atmosphere, especially at sunset, when the golden light turns the limestone blocks into glowing relics of a glorious past.
📍 Visitor Information
Location: 6 km northwest of Siracusa, near Belvedere
Opening Hours: Generally daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (shorter hours in winter)
Entry Fee: Around €4, reduced rates for students and seniors; free entry for children under 18 (EU residents)
Duration: 1–1.5 hours to fully explore the ruins
Access: Easily reachable by car or bus from Siracusa; parking available near the site
✅ Travel Tips
Wear sturdy shoes: the terrain is rocky and uneven.
Bring a flashlight if you want to explore the darker underground galleries.
Combine your visit with the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Siracusa (Greek Theatre, Ear of Dionysius, Roman Amphitheatre) for a full immersion into the city’s ancient past.
Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the views and atmosphere at golden hour.
🏺 A Timeless Monument to Greek Ingenuity
The Castello Eurialo is not a castle in the medieval sense, but a Greek military fortress of genius and scale, unmatched in the ancient Mediterranean. It speaks of a time when Siracusa rivaled Athens and Carthage, and when science, architecture, and war were intertwined.
To walk among its ditches, tunnels, and walls is to step back into the world of ancient Sicily, where stone was shaped into one of the most formidable defensive systems ever built.
🏰 Castle of Buccheri — The Vanished Giant of the Val di Noto
High in the Iblean Mountains, at nearly 900 meters above sea level, once stood one of the most powerful fortresses of southeastern Sicily: the Castello di Buccheri. Though today only scattered ruins remain, the castle’s memory lives on in the town’s identity and in the legends of a fortress that once dominated the surrounding valleys, watching over the plain of Catania, the Ionian Sea, Mount Etna, and even the distant coast of Calabria.
📜 History of the Castle
The castle was built around the 13th century, during the period of Norman and Swabian consolidation of Sicily, when fortifications were vital for controlling the rugged interior and protecting the Val di Noto.
Its imposing structure, with a quadrilateral layout, two corner towers, and a central master tower (keep), made it both a defensive outpost and a symbol of feudal power.
Over the centuries, the fortress passed from family to family: from the Paternò lineage to the Montalto Morra family, who held it until the 16th century. By then, the castle had lost much of its military importance and began to be used instead as a shelter for livestock. This neglect marked the beginning of its slow decline.
By the modern era, the once formidable stronghold had fallen into ruin, leaving behind only vestiges of walls and towers, yet its aura of grandeur still clings to the rocky heights above Buccheri.
🧱 Architecture & Features
Though little remains, medieval chronicles and local memory allow us to imagine its appearance:
Quadrilateral Plan: A compact yet powerful design, with thick walls enclosing an inner courtyard.
Twin Towers: Two prominent towers flanking the entrance, symbolizing authority and control.
Central Keep: The main tower rising above the fortress, both residence and last refuge in case of siege.
Strategic Position: At nearly 900 m of altitude, the castle commanded extraordinary views of the surrounding landscape, serving as a watchtower over valleys, seas, and trade routes.
Today, only traces of masonry, stone blocks, and earthworks are visible, but the setting alone evokes its past power.
🌄 What to See Today
The ruins of the castle on the hilltop, accessible via a panoramic path.
Sweeping views of Mount Etna, the Ionian coast, and Calabria on clear days.
The medieval character of Buccheri, one of the highest towns in Sicily, with narrow alleys, ancient churches, and noble palaces.
Even if the castle itself has nearly vanished, the landscape it once ruled remains breathtaking.
📍 Visitor Information
Location: Buccheri, province of Siracusa, Sicily
Access: The castle hill is reachable by foot from the town center (short but uphill walk).
Entry: Free — the ruins are open to the public.
Duration: 30–60 minutes for the castle area; longer if combined with a stroll through Buccheri’s historic center.
✅ Travel Tips
Visit on a clear day: the views stretch as far as Mount Etna and Calabria.
Wear sturdy shoes: the paths are uneven and partly unpaved.
Combine with nearby medieval sites of the Val di Noto and natural excursions in the Iblean Mountains.
Stop in Buccheri to taste local specialties — the town is famous for its olive oil and mountain gastronomy.
🌟 A Lost Fortress, a Living Memory
The Castle of Buccheri may no longer stand in all its grandeur, but its legacy survives in the stories, landscapes, and identity of the town. Once a giant among the castles of the Val di Noto, it reminds us how even ruins can inspire awe when they hold centuries of history and a view that touches both mountains and sea.
🏰 Fortress of Vittoria — Augusta’s Sentinel of the Sea
At the heart of the great natural harbor of Augusta, one of the most strategic naval bases of the Mediterranean, stands the Fortress of Vittoria. Though modest in scale compared to Sicily’s grand castles, this stronghold played a crucial role in the island’s defensive system, guarding the port and town for centuries.
📜 History of the Fortress
The origins of the fortress date back to the second half of the 14th century, when Frederick of Swabia ordered the construction of a compact square fort with a tower at each corner. Its purpose was clear: to defend Augusta, a key maritime hub, from both land and sea attacks.
Over the centuries, the fortress was repeatedly modified to adapt to evolving military needs. The most significant changes came during the Spanish domination in the 16th century. Under the command of Don Garzia de Toledo, Viceroy of Sicily, the fort was expanded with the addition of four powerful bastions, named after saints:
San Filippo
San Giacomo
San Bartolomeo
Vigliena
These bastions, angular and massive, were designed specifically to resist artillery fire, marking the transition from medieval fortresses to modern bastioned fortifications of the Renaissance.
In later centuries, the fort continued to serve a military function. Used as a barracks and arsenal, it remained under military control until as recently as 1950, when the Italian Navy finally relinquished it.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The original nucleus of the fortress was a square plan, with a tower at each corner, following the model of Swabian military architecture.
The Spanish additions transformed it into a true bastioned fortress:
Angular bastions projecting outward, capable of covering blind spots and repelling cannon assaults
Curtain walls linking the bastions in a quadrilateral shape
Central courtyard, once occupied by barracks and storage rooms
Sea-facing defenses, controlling access to the harbor
Though austere in decoration, the fortress reflects centuries of adaptation, from the Swabians to the Spanish and finally the Bourbons.
⚓ A Military Legacy
Unlike palatial castles such as Donnafugata or Castelbuono, the Fortress of Vittoria was never meant for noble life. It was always a military machine, its very form dictated by function. For this reason, it has the sober, imposing appearance of a barracks, its power lying not in beauty but in strength.
Until the mid-20th century, the fortress was alive with the sounds of the navy — soldiers marching, cannons ready, the harbor constantly patrolled. Today, though silent, it remains a symbol of Augusta’s naval identity.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Augusta, province of Siracusa, Sicily
Current Use: The fortress is still under partial military jurisdiction, but sections are occasionally open for guided tours, cultural events, and exhibitions.
Access: Check with Augusta’s tourist office for visiting opportunities. The exterior can be admired from the seafront and harbor area.
✅ Travel Tips
Combine your visit with Augusta’s other fortifications, such as the Spanish Walls and Castle Svevo, for a full picture of the city’s defensive system.
The best view of the fortress is from the harbor waters — a boat tour reveals its geometry and bastions from the sea.
Sunset is the most evocative moment, when the fortress walls glow with warm tones and the sea reflects their silhouette.
🌟 Guardian of the Harbor
The Fortress of Vittoria may not dazzle with opulent halls or frescoed chapels, but it tells a different, equally important story: that of Sicily as a naval crossroads, always contested, always defended.
Standing by its bastions, one can still feel the weight of history — of sailors, viceroys, and soldiers who looked out to sea, ready to face whatever threat might appear on the horizon.
🏰 Swabian Tower of Vendicari — Sentinel of the Gulf of Noto
In the heart of the Vendicari Nature Reserve, surrounded by salt pans, marshes, dunes, and the crystal waters of the Ionian Sea, rises the Swabian Tower of Vendicari (Torre Sveva). More than just a military outpost, this tower embodies centuries of struggle against piracy and foreign invasions, as well as Sicily’s deep connection with the sea.
Its silhouette, austere yet elegant, stands today as both a historical monument and a scenic landmark within one of Sicily’s most unspoiled natural paradises.
📜 History of the Tower
The tower was erected in 1430, commissioned by Peter of Aragon, Duke of Noto (brother of Alfonso, King of Spain and Sicily). Its purpose was clear: to protect the rich and active port of Vendicari, an important commercial and fishing hub, from the growing menace of corsairs and Turkish pirates.
In the 16th century, during the Spanish domination, the fortress underwent significant modifications. Under the orders of the Viceroy Juan de Vega, it was equipped with long-range artillery, making it a true bastioned fort rather than a simple lookout.
The tower remained active as a military garrison and coastal watch post for centuries, until piracy declined and the area gradually lost its strategic importance. Today, it survives as a powerful reminder of Sicily’s defensive network, restored to its former splendor after recent conservation efforts.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The lower part of the tower is clearly Swabian in design, recalling the military architecture of Frederick II’s castles, with thick limestone walls and a robust, almost cubic form. Here, one also finds a cistern that ingeniously collected seawater for the garrison.
The upper sections reflect the 16th-century Spanish adaptations, with additional fortifications and embrasures for artillery.
From the top of the tower, the panoramic views are breathtaking: the entire Vendicari coastline stretches before the eye, with its lagoons, sandy coves, and the ruins of the tuna fishery.
🌊 Legends and Curiosities
Local tales say that the tower once had secret tunnels connecting it to the coast, allowing soldiers to escape during pirate attacks.
It has become an iconic backdrop for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the stone glows golden against the blue of the Ionian Sea.
Alongside the tower, the ruins of the tonnara (tuna fishery) tell another story of Vendicari’s past: that of Sicily’s fishing traditions.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Vendicari Nature Reserve, near Noto (province of Siracusa), Sicily
Access: A short walk (10–15 minutes) from the main entrances of the reserve; paths are flat and easy.
Entry Fee: Free access to the reserve and the tower area.
Opening Hours: The reserve is open daily, generally from sunrise to sunset.
Duration: 1–2 hours if combined with a walk through the reserve and a swim at the nearby beaches (Calamosche, Vendicari, Eloro).
✅ Travel Tips
Visit in the late afternoon: the tower silhouetted against the sunset is unforgettable.
Combine history with nature: bring binoculars to observe the flamingos and herons that populate the reserve’s wetlands.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water — the paths are easy but exposed to the sun.
Don’t miss the nearby Noto, a jewel of Sicilian Baroque, for a perfect cultural and natural itinerary.
🌟 A Tower Between History and Nature
The Swabian Tower of Vendicari is more than just a ruin — it is a symbol of Sicily’s resilience against centuries of invasions, and at the same time, a gateway to the timeless beauty of Vendicari’s landscape.
Here, where stone and sea meet, one can relive the echoes of battles against corsairs, while enjoying the serenity of one of the most pristine corners of the Mediterranean.
🏰 Spanish Fort of Portopalo di Capo Passero — The Sentinel of the Two Seas
On the small island of Capo Passero, at the very tip of Sicily where the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas meet, stands the Spanish Fort, also known as the Forte di Capo Passero. Isolated yet majestic, this fortress has watched over the southernmost edge of Sicily for centuries, a bastion against pirates and invaders and a symbol of Sicily’s eternal struggle with the sea.
📜 History of the Fort
The fort’s origins go back to the Swabian-Aragonese period, but it acquired its present form during the 16th century, under Charles V of Spain. At the time, Sicily was under constant threat from Ottoman fleets and Barbary corsairs. The fort of Capo Passero, rising on a 20-metre-high rocky plateau, was one of the most strategic defensive outposts in eastern Sicily.
Together with other coastal watchtowers and strongholds, it formed part of the network of fortifications that linked Syracuse, Noto, and the extreme southern tip of the island.
In addition to its military role, the fort also had a religious and social function: one of its halls was converted into a parish church dedicated to the Annunciation, where 17th-century tombs still testify to the presence of a small community living under its protection.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The Spanish Fort is a striking example of military sobriety and strength:
Square Plan: The fortress rises with thick curtain walls and very few windows, built to resist cannon fire.
Entrance Stairway: Access is gained via a long L-shaped double staircase, leading to the eastern doorway.
Imperial Coat of Arms: Above the entrance, a limestone crest bears the eagle of the Habsburgs, symbol of Charles V’s empire.
Courtyard and Vaulted Halls: Inside, the courtyard is surrounded by square rooms with barrel vaults, once used as storage and barracks.
Upper Quarters: The second floor served as living space for the officers of the garrison.
Parish Church: One ground-floor room was converted into a chapel, dedicated to the Virgin of the Annunciation, where tombstones recall the fort’s 17th-century residents.
Its position, dominating the island and facing the open sea, made it almost impregnable to seaborne attacks.
⚓ Tuna Fishery and Coastal Life
Near the fort are the evocative remains of the tonnara (tuna fishery) of Portopalo. The site preserves traces of:
The courtyard and loggia
The old factory with its furnace
Warehouses for storing nets and salted fish
The noble residence of the Bruno di Belmonte family, owners of the tuna industry
The private chapel of the family, built in the 17th century
These ruins, together with the fortress, offer a glimpse of how defense, fishing, and noble enterprise were intertwined in Sicily’s coastal economy.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Island of Capo Passero, opposite Portopalo di Capo Passero (province of Siracusa)
Access: Reachable by small boat or shuttle services from Portopalo’s harbor, especially in summer.
Entry Fee: Modest ticket (~€3–5) when open to the public.
Opening Hours: Seasonal; generally open during summer months with guided tours.
Duration: Allow 1–1.5 hours to explore the fort and the tuna fishery remains.
✅ Travel Tips
Combine your visit with a boat tour around the island to admire the fort from the sea.
Wear comfortable shoes: paths around the island are rocky and sun-exposed.
Bring water and sun protection — shade is limited.
Visit at sunset for dramatic light over the fortress and the two seas.
Pair the experience with nearby attractions: the Isola delle Correnti (southernmost tip of Sicily) and the Vendicari Nature Reserve.
🌟 Where Seas and History Meet
The Spanish Fort of Capo Passero is not just a fortress: it is a meeting point of worlds — between the Mediterranean and the Ionian, between past and present, between defense and daily life.
Here, the echo of corsair raids, garrison life, and noble fisheries blends with the timeless sound of waves crashing against the rocks. Visiting it means touching the soul of Sicily’s southern frontier, where land, sea, and history converge in unforgettable harmony.
Castles in province of Trapani
🏰 Erice Castle — The Fortress of Venus Above the Clouds
Clinging to the summit of Monte San Giuliano, at nearly 750 meters above sea level, the medieval town of Erice feels suspended between heaven and earth. Narrow stone streets, ancient walls, and breathtaking panoramas make it one of the most evocative destinations in Sicily.
At its southern corner rises the Castello di Erice, also known as the Castle of Venus, built on the very spot where in antiquity stood one of the most famous temples of the Mediterranean world: the Temple of Venus Erycina, goddess of love and fertility.
📜 History of the Castle
The site of Erice has been sacred and strategic since the Phoenicians, who enclosed the settlement with triangular walls that still partly survive today. In Roman times, the Temple of Venus was a renowned pilgrimage center, attracting sailors and merchants who sought the goddess’s protection.
When the temple fell into ruin, the Normans, recognizing the strategic and symbolic power of the place, built a fortress here in the 12th–13th century. The castle was designed as a military stronghold, guarding the coast of western Sicily, while also reclaiming the ancient aura of sacredness.
During the Spanish period, the fortress was further reinforced, and a coat of arms of Charles V still adorns the entrance gate.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The Castello di Erice is a textbook example of Norman defensive architecture, yet with echoes of the site’s ancient past:
Massive Walls: Enclose the fortress, blending into the rocky cliffs of Monte San Giuliano.
Main Gate: Embellished with the imperial coat of arms of Charles V and a fine two-light mullioned window.
Machicolations: Defensive openings above the entrance, from which defenders could pour boiling liquids or drop stones on attackers.
Torri del Balio (Bailey Towers): A series of advanced towers once connected to the castle by a drawbridge, now standing like guardians of the walls.
Belvedere: From the castle’s terraces, visitors enjoy extraordinary 360° panoramas:
To the west, Trapani and the shimmering Egadi Islands
To the north, the medieval towers and the turret of Pepoli
To the east, Monte Cofano and the Gulf of Bonagia
On clear days, even the island of Ustica emerges on the horizon
🌟 Atmosphere & Legends
The castle is often called the Castle of Venus, a tribute to the goddess whose sanctuary once stood here. Ancient legends tell of sacred rites, priestesses, and the mystical aura that lingered even after the temple’s destruction.
Erice itself is sometimes called the “Assisi of the South”, because of its medieval streets, churches, and timeless charm.
Writers and travelers across centuries have described Erice as a place where myth and history intertwine, suspended between earth, sky, and sea.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Erice, province of Trapani, western Sicily
Opening Hours: Usually daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies seasonally; best to check locally)
Entry Fee: Around €3–5; combined tickets often available for the castle and the Torri del Balio
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour for the castle itself; at least half a day to enjoy Erice’s historic center
Access:
By car: winding scenic road from Trapani
By cable car: panoramic funivia from Trapani up to Erice
On foot: for the adventurous, hiking paths lead up the mountain
✅ Travel Tips
Visit in the morning to enjoy clear skies and sweeping views before the clouds rise and wrap the mountaintop in mist.
Bring a jacket, even in summer: Erice is much cooler than the coast.
Combine the castle with a walk through Erice’s medieval center, visiting its many churches, the Pepoli Castle, and artisan shops selling almond pastries and genovesi ericine.
Sunset is magical: the view over Trapani and the Egadi Islands is unforgettable.
🌄 A Fortress Between Myth and Sky
The Castle of Erice is more than stone and walls: it is a meeting place of myth, history, and nature. From the sacred temple of Venus to the Norman fortress, from medieval wars to today’s quiet panoramas, it embodies the layers of Sicily’s past.
Standing on its ramparts, with the sea on three sides and the clouds often below your feet, you understand why Erice has enchanted gods, queens, warriors, and travelers for over two millennia.
🏰 Castle of the Counts of Modica — Power and Prestige in the Heart of Sicily
Dominating the town of Alcamo, in the province of Trapani, the Castello dei Conti di Modica stands as one of the most fascinating examples of late medieval fortification in Sicily. With its elegant yet solid form, alternating round and square towers, and its unusual rhomboid plan, the castle has long symbolized the authority and prestige of the Counts of Modica, one of the island’s most powerful noble dynasties.
📜 History of the Castle
The construction of the castle dates back to the mid-14th century, during the period when many Sicilian towns were being fortified to resist internal rebellions and foreign threats.
In the early 15th century, it passed into the hands of the Counts of Modica, who held it for centuries. Under their rule, the castle became not just a fortress but also a seat of political and administrative power for the surrounding territory.
By the 19th century, after the decline of feudalism, the castle lost its aristocratic function and was converted into a prison, a role it served for decades until the 20th century.
Fortunately, careful restoration works in recent years have preserved and enhanced the structure, returning it to the community as a cultural and historical landmark.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The castle’s design is both practical and symbolic, reflecting its defensive role and the prestige of its owners:
Rhomboid Plan: Unlike the square or rectangular layouts of many Sicilian castles, Alcamo’s fortress is built on a rhomboid base, giving it a distinctive geometry.
Four Towers: At each corner rises a tower, alternating in shape:
Two round towers, ideal for resisting artillery fire
Two square towers, more traditional and imposing in appearance
Curtain Walls: Solid limestone walls connect the towers, enclosing an inner courtyard once used for garrison and administrative purposes.
Interiors: Today restored, they reveal traces of medieval structures and later adaptations, including prison cells from the castle’s more recent history.
The alternation of cylindrical and square towers makes the castle’s silhouette especially striking, and unique in the panorama of Sicilian military architecture.
🌟 Symbol of the Counts of Modica
For centuries, the castle was the visible emblem of the Counts’ authority, projecting both military strength and noble prestige. The Modica family, who controlled vast territories across Sicily, used the fortress as a seat of jurisdiction and governance, while its prominent location over Alcamo asserted their dominance.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Alcamo, province of Trapani, Sicily
Opening Hours: Usually open daily, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
Entry Fee: Free or modest (~€2–3) depending on exhibitions hosted inside
Current Use: The castle often houses cultural events, art exhibitions, and historical displays
Duration: 30–60 minutes for a visit; longer if combined with Alcamo’s historic center
✅ Travel Tips
Combine your visit with Alcamo’s historic old town, rich in churches and noble palaces.
Don’t miss the nearby Nature Reserve of Monte Bonifato, perfect for a panoramic hike.
Visit in the evening when the castle is illuminated — its towers stand out beautifully against the night sky.
🌄 A Fortress Reborn
The Castle of the Counts of Modica has lived many lives: from medieval fortress to noble residence, from prison to cultural hub. Today, thanks to careful restoration, it is once again a place where visitors can touch history and admire one of Sicily’s most original fortresses.
Standing before its towers, one can still feel the echo of feudal lords, soldiers, and prisoners — a layered story that, like Sicily itself, blends grandeur, power, and resilience.
🏰 Grifeo Castle of Partanna — Nine Centuries of Power and Survival
In the heart of the Belice Valley, the Grifeo Castle of Partanna rises as one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses of western Sicily. More than a stronghold, it is a living chronicle of nine uninterrupted centuries of history, tied inseparably to the Grifeo family, who ruled here from the Norman conquest until modern times.
📜 History of the Castle
The story of the castle begins in 1076, when Roger the Great Count conquered Partanna, ending Muslim control of the area. The fortress was soon entrusted to the Grifeo family, who made it their residence and symbol of feudal power.
From that moment on, the castle never changed its function: always a seat of authority, always the visible emblem of the Grifeos’ supremacy. Over the centuries it was expanded, restructured, and adapted, yet its role as the town’s political and social center remained constant.
But the roots of the site go back much further. Archaeological finds in Contrada Grotte reveal Bronze Age cave tombs, proof of ancient Sicanian settlement. Later came the Greeks and Romans, before the Arabs built two guard towers — one later transformed into a bell tower, the other incorporated into the castle itself.
In the 15th century, the fortress was rebuilt on its medieval base into the rectangular structure we see today. In the 17th century, it was further modernized, becoming more of a noble residence without losing its defensive strength.
The 1968 Belice earthquake, which devastated much of western Sicily and erased entire towns, left the castle standing. While churches and houses collapsed around it, the fortress endured, becoming a symbol of survival and continuity for the people of Partanna.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The castle is a remarkable blend of medieval strength and baronial refinement:
Rectangular body with three inner courtyards.
Pitched roofs supported by wooden beams and terracotta tiles.
Thick tufa and stone masonry, with ceramic and terracotta floors.
Medieval towers integrated into the structure, reminders of its Arab and Norman origins.
Seventeenth-century renovations that gave the interiors a more comfortable, noble character.
Although once it dominated the town from a commanding position, the later growth of Partanna’s urban fabric reduced its visual prominence. Yet the castle still preserves the aura of a fortress-palace where politics, power, and daily life intersected.
🌟 Symbol of Identity
For nearly a millennium, the Grifeo Castle was the undisputed symbol of authority in Partanna. Its endurance through wars, centuries of feudal rule, and even natural disasters has made it a landmark of resilience in the Belice Valley.
Today it houses the Museum of Prehistory of the Belice, where archaeological finds from the region — from Bronze Age tombs to Greek and Roman artifacts — reconnect the castle to its most ancient roots.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Historic center of Partanna, province of Trapani, Sicily.
Opening Hours: Generally daily, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM (varies seasonally).
Entry Fee: Around €3–5, with reductions for groups and students.
Duration: About 1 hour for the castle and museum, longer if exploring exhibitions.
✅ Travel Tips
Combine the castle with a tour of Partanna’s rebuilt historic center, where the scars of the 1968 earthquake are still visible.
Visit the Mother Church and Church of the Carmine, both restored after the quake.
Take time to explore the Belice Valley, with nearby towns like Gibellina and Salemi, to understand the cultural and historical fabric of this part of Sicily.
🌄 A Fortress That Endured
The Grifeo Castle of Partanna is more than a medieval stronghold — it is a survivor of centuries and calamities, a witness to Sicily’s turbulent past, and a custodian of its ancient memory.
From prehistoric tombs to Norman knights, from noble Grifeos to modern-day visitors, its walls echo with the voices of history, reminding us that true power lies in endurance and identity.
🏰 Castle of Salemi — The Arab-Norman Sentinel of the Belice Valley
Standing proudly on a hilltop that dominates the natural crossroads between Palermo, Marsala, Mazara del Vallo, and Trapani, the Castle of Salemi is one of the most fascinating medieval fortresses of western Sicily. Its position made it a strategic stronghold for centuries, controlling inland routes and the coastal access of the island’s western lands.
📜 History of the Castle
The origins of the fortress date back to the period immediately after the Norman conquest of Sicily. An inscription carved on the lintel of a window in the cylindrical tower, with the Christogram “ICNCRI” (Iesus Christus Nazarenus Crucifixus Rex Iudeorum), places the construction shortly after 1070, when the Normans subdued the Arabs in this area.
Stylistic details, however, reveal a clear Arab influence: it is believed that Norman rulers relied on Moorish craftsmen, whose refined techniques gave the structure its unique appearance.
Over the centuries, the castle adapted to changing needs:
12th–16th centuries: impregnable military citadel and symbol of power.
15th–16th centuries: observation tower and lookout post.
17th–19th centuries: repurposed as an agricultural warehouse for straw and tools.
1934–1968: seat of the Municipal Library.
The devastating Belice earthquake of 1968 severely damaged the structure, but careful restoration has since brought the castle back to life, making it once again accessible and admired.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The Castle of Salemi is a fascinating blend of Arab-Norman design and Swabian-Frederician innovations:
Regular, symmetrical plan, with rooms covered by umbrella vaults.
Cylindrical tower featuring the sacred Christogram inscription.
Ribbed vaults with sculpted keys, typical of Frederick II’s architecture.
Geometric patterns blending circles, octagons, and polygons — hallmarks of Sicilian Swabian castles.
Massive stone walls, built to resist sieges and earthquakes alike.
This mixture of geometric purity and ornamental detail highlights the coexistence of Arab craftsmanship and Norman military pragmatism, later refined by Swabian engineers.
🌟 A Fortress Through the Ages
In the Middle Ages, the castle was an unassailable stronghold, the very heart of Salemi’s civic and military life.
In peaceful times, it became a practical building, used for farming needs.
In the modern era, it transformed into a library and cultural hub, keeping alive its role as the town’s intellectual center.
Today, it is once again a heritage landmark, welcoming visitors from all over the world.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Historic center of Salemi, province of Trapani, Sicily.
Opening Hours: Generally daily, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM (seasonal variations).
Entry Fee: ??.
Visit Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore halls, towers, and courtyards.
✅ Travel Tips
Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views over the Belice Valley.
Combine the castle with a visit to the Museum of the Mafia and the Civic Museum of Salemi, both nearby.
Stroll through Salemi’s medieval alleys, dotted with small churches and artisan shops.
Best time to visit: spring and autumn, when the countryside around the Belice Valley is at its most colorful.
🌄 A Fortress of Memory and Resilience
The Castle of Salemi is more than just a medieval monument: it is a living chronicle of Sicily’s layered history. From Arab artistry to Norman military strength, from Swabian geometry to modern resilience, the fortress embodies the island’s ability to reinvent itself.
Having resisted wars, centuries of neglect, and even the fury of earthquakes, it stands today as a guardian of the Belice Valley, where past and present meet on a hill that has always been sacred to power.
🏰 Castle of Inici — Between History and Legend
Hidden among the rugged landscapes of western Sicily, on the slopes of Mount Inici above Castellammare del Golfo, lie the ruins of the mysterious Castle of Inici. Surrounded by myths and wrapped in silence, this fortress tells a story that blurs the line between history and legend, evoking the memory of a once-thriving city said to have existed here in ancient times.
📜 History of the Castle
The origins of the Castle of Inici are shrouded in mystery. Tradition associates it with the legendary city of Inico, a settlement whose traces have long since vanished, leaving behind only stories and ruins.
The castle itself was likely erected in the early 18th century, strategically placed at the foot of Mount Inici and above the Mendola River valley. Over time, it passed through the hands of different rulers: Arabs, Normans, Swabians, and Angevins are all said to have left their mark on this land, though much of its early history remains undocumented and wrapped in conjecture.
In the 19th century, the estate came under the ownership of the Linnet family, who added a tower to the fortress as a visible symbol of possession and power. This tower became the castle’s most distinctive feature, standing proud against the mountain backdrop — until 1998, when it collapsed, never to be rebuilt.
🧱 Architecture & Features
Although now in ruins, the castle once presented a noble country residence more than a strictly military fortress. Its architecture reflected the baroque taste of the 18th century, with:
A central block framed by service wings.
A large courtyard at its heart, used for both domestic and agricultural activities.
The 19th-century tower, which once crowned the complex and gave it a romantic silhouette.
Today, only fragments remain, but the site still emanates a powerful atmosphere of abandonment and grandeur lost.
🌟 Legends and Mystique
The name Inici itself is wrapped in legend, linked to the mythical city of Inico, said to have been rich and powerful before vanishing without a trace.
Local tales speak of hidden treasures buried beneath the ruins, guarded by spirits who protect the land from intruders.
Even in its ruined state, the castle is a beloved landmark, inspiring poets, historians, and curious travelers.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: On the slopes of Mount Inici, near Castellammare del Golfo (Trapani province).
Access: The ruins can be reached by country roads and trails leading from Castellammare; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Condition: The castle is in a state of ruin, with limited access — best admired from outside for safety reasons.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or autumn, when the surrounding hills are green and the views extend across the gulf.
✅ Travel Tips
Pair the visit with a trip to Castellammare del Golfo, whose seafront castle still dominates the town.
For hikers, Mount Inici offers trails with spectacular panoramas of the coast and the inland valleys.
Bring a camera: the ruins, framed by the Sicilian countryside, are perfect for atmospheric photography.
🌄 A Castle Between Earth and Legend
Though little remains of the Castle of Inici, its spirit endures — in the legends of a vanished city, in the memory of its noble families, and in the romantic solitude of its ruins.
Here, amid the silence of Mount Inici, one can still feel the echoes of history, suspended between fact and myth, between what was built in stone and what survives in imagination.
🏰 Punta Troia Castle — The Eagle’s Nest of Marettimo
Perched dramatically at 115 meters above sea level, on a rocky promontory that juts into the cobalt waters of the Mediterranean, the Punta Troia Castle is one of the most striking landmarks of the Egadi Islands. Its solitary silhouette dominates the wild beauty of Marettimo, the most remote and unspoiled of the archipelago, earning it the nickname of the island’s “fortress above the sea.”
📜 History of the Castle
The origins of the fortress date back to the Saracen period, when it was first built as a watchtower and lighthouse, guarding the western approaches to Sicily from pirate raids and enemy fleets.
Over the centuries, it was expanded and reinforced, its strategic location making it indispensable for controlling maritime routes between Sicily and North Africa.
From 1795 to 1844, Punta Troia Castle served a darker purpose: it was converted into a prison, where convicts were confined in harsh and isolated conditions. Among its most famous inmates was William Peppé, remembered in local lore as one of its most tragic prisoners.
After centuries of military use and abandonment, the fortress was acquired by the Municipality of Favignana in 2001, restored, and opened to the public, becoming a cultural and historical beacon of the Egadi Islands.
🧱 Architecture & Features
The castle’s position is its greatest defense: perched on a sheer cliff, it is accessible only by a single iron-gated entrance at the top of a steep stairway.
Inside, the structure reflects its layered history:
Saracen core: the earliest nucleus, used for surveillance and signals.
Medieval reinforcements: walls and battlements adapted for coastal defense.
Prison era cells: stark chambers where inmates were once held in isolation.
Observation terrace: offering unparalleled views of the island, the sea, and the distant Sicilian coast.
🌟 Atmosphere & Legends
Its isolated position makes the castle feel almost like an “island on the island,” suspended between sea and sky.
Local legends describe it as a place of suffering and redemption, where prisoners carved messages of despair into the walls.
Today, its aura has transformed from one of fear to one of awe, as visitors stand on its terraces gazing at an endless horizon of blue.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Punta Troia, Marettimo Island (Egadi Islands, province of Trapani).
Access: Reach Marettimo by ferry from Trapani or Favignana. From the village, the castle can be reached by foot along a scenic coastal trail (about 1–1.5 hours, moderately challenging).
Entry: The castle is open as a museum and cultural site, with exhibitions on local history and the prison era.
Duration: Half a day is recommended to enjoy both the hike and the visit.
✅ Travel Tips
Wear sturdy shoes: the trail is steep and rocky.
Bring water and sun protection — the path is exposed, especially in summer.
The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon, when the light enhances the colors of sea and cliffs.
Combine your hike with a swim in Marettimo’s crystal-clear coves for the ultimate experience.
🌊 A Fortress at the Edge of the World
The Punta Troia Castle is not just a monument, but a journey through time and nature. From Saracen watchtower to prison of despair, and finally to restored cultural landmark, it mirrors the turbulent history of Sicily and the resilience of its people.
Standing atop its terraces, with the vast Mediterranean stretching endlessly in every direction, visitors feel what countless sailors, soldiers, and prisoners must have felt: the awe of isolation, the grandeur of the sea, and the power of stone against time.
🏰 Castello di Terra — The Lost Fortress of Trapani
In the heart of Trapani, where the narrow peninsula stretches into the Tyrrhenian Sea, once stood the Castello di Terra — “Castle of the Earth.” Though today only fragments remain along Lungomare Dante Alighieri, this fortress was for centuries the beating heart of the city’s defenses, a symbol of Trapani’s strategic role at the crossroads of the Mediterranean.
📜 History of the Castle
The origins of the castle trace back to 1186, when it was built to protect the growing medieval town. Positioned near what is now Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and the lush gardens of Villa Margherita, the fortress dominated both land and sea routes.
Over the centuries, the castle underwent significant transformations. It is believed that the site had even earlier Punic origins, later reshaped by the Normans and Swabians into a true stronghold. In the 14th century, major renovations gave it a more complex architectural form, adapting it to the needs of the age.
By the 19th century, the castle had lost much of its defensive function and was repurposed as a Bourbon barracks, housing soldiers rather than warding off enemies. Eventually, it was demolished, and in its place modern buildings arose — including the headquarters of the local police.
🧱 Architecture & Features
Though little survives today, historical accounts and surviving fragments give us a sense of the castle’s grandeur:
Thick defensive walls, portions of which still stand along the waterfront promenade.
A central keep that once rose above the town, visible to ships approaching Trapani’s harbor.
Medieval modifications that gave it a square and massive appearance, typical of Swabian and Aragonese fortresses.
Later Bourbon-era adaptations, which stripped away much of its medieval character in favor of military barracks.
🌟 Memory and Symbolism
The Castello di Terra is unique among Sicily’s castles: rather than towering on a mountain or cliff, it stood inside the living fabric of Trapani, close to markets, churches, and civic spaces.
For locals, it was both a protector and a landmark, its walls anchoring the town’s identity until modern urban expansion swept much of it away.
Today, walking along the seafront, one can still spot sections of the ancient walls, silent reminders of a fortress that once defined Trapani’s skyline.
📍 Visiting Information
Location: Near Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Trapani historic center.
What Remains: Fragments of the outer walls visible on Lungomare Dante Alighieri.
Access: Free, as the remains are incorporated into the city’s public spaces.
Nearby Sights: Villa Margherita, Trapani’s old town, and the harbor area — perfect for combining history with a seaside stroll.
🌊 A Castle That Lives in Memory
The Castello di Terra may no longer stand in its full form, but its legacy survives in the stones that remain and in the collective memory of Trapani.
It tells the story of a city that was always open to the sea, yet wary of invasion, a city where fortresses and harbors blended into the daily life of its people.
Today, its absence is as powerful as its presence once was — a reminder that even vanished castles can still guard the soul of a place.