Precariously perched on a cliff is the magnificent Norman-style castle Castello Di Venere which is also called the Castle of Venus. Built over the 12th and 13th Centuries, a visit here is deeply evocative of Italy's splendid past. The castle is in a state of ruins but this does not stop the tourists who keep pouring in to catch some panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Although there is no admission price as such, donations will certainly help in the upkeep of the castle.
Overlooking Piazza Santuario in the town of San Vito Lo Capo, Santuario di San Vito is a Christian worship place. Established in the year 1854, this sanctuary was built on the remains of an old church that dates back to the 4th century. It features several stucco sculptures that were made by the Italian sculptor, Orazio Ferraro. In addition to sculptures of various saints and biblical characters, this church also features two wells in a room underground and a well-kept museum. This interesting museum showcases various artifacts like canvases, lithographs, religious objects and a lot more.
Although the exact year of the foundation of this church is not known, one can estimate its origin to the early 15th Century based on an original fresco found inside the church. The church was built by Frederick of Aragon and was dedicated to Virgin Mary. The church is marked by a magnificent facade that opens to a portico and is preceded by a Gothic bell tower. The interior of the church comprises Baroque altars and paintings that were added to the church in 17th Century. Inside, one can also find a statue of St. Anthony of Padua and that of the Madonna attributed to Francesco Laurana.
Das von den Elymern auf einem 751 m hohen Bergkegel gegründete Erice ist eine der ältesten Städte Siziliens. Aufgrund der Höhenlage sind die Temperaturen selbst im Hochsommer angenehm, die Fernsicht bis zu den Ägadischen Inseln ist überwältigend. Erice kann zudem mit einem grandiosen mittelalterlichen Stadtbild aufwarten: Einer der malerichsten Orte Siziliens.
Erice is a small town in Italy with delightful cobblestone pavements, little lanes and historical buildings all around, like you would see in the movies. One such facade is the Chiesa di Sant'Orsola or in other words the Church of St. Ursula. This church was actually built for St. Anthony but in due time the patronage was changed to St. Ursula. The church is believed to have been built in the early 15th Century and if you stare long enough, the worn out facade of the church depicts the decades it has withstood. A must visit to offer your prayers and enjoy the peace and calm of this place.
Das im gotisch-katalanischen Stil errichtete Gotteshaus ist heute ein rege besuchter Wallfahrtsort.
If you crave for knowing more about the Roman history, a visit to the city of Segesta is a must on your next vacation. Segesta is one of the three major cities which were inhabited by the Elymian people. The history of this place can be traced to as early as 580 BCE period. It is said that Segesta was earlier known as Acesta after its local king Acestes. Later, this name was changed by the Romans due to its ill-omen meaning. Segesta is popular for featuring the historic Greek temple which dates back to 420 BCE. In addition to this, it is known for housing the ruins of the ancient Greek theater.
Der Tempel von Segesta war einer der letzten großen Tempelbauten Siziliens. Er wurde um 425 v.Chr. von den Elymern begonnen, blieb aber unvollendet. Ein Stück weiter oben, am Rand des 431 m hohen Monte Barbaro, öffnet sich der Halbkreis des Amphitheaters. Von den 20 erhaltenen Sitzreihen bietet sich ein grandioser Blick über eine weite, fruchtbare Hügellandschaft bis hinunter zum Golfo di Castellammare.