The Riserva naturale dello zingaro or the Zingaro Nature reserve is a natural reserve located in Sicily. Established in the year 1981, this reserve runs along approximately 7 kilometers (4.3496 miles) of the Gulf of Castellammare and the accompanying mountain chain. Zingaro has a diverse abundance of plant species and several endemic birds and animals. It boasts at least 39 bird species, mainly being the birds of prey, such as the common kestrel and peregrine falcon. Among the historical sites, there is the ancient Uzzo Grotto settlement. The reserve offers a panoramic view of the lovely bays, steep cliffs and the coast. Get ready for a hiking trip on the challenging steep paths at this reserve.
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.
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.
The Riserva naturale dello zingaro or the Zingaro Nature reserve is a natural reserve located in Sicily. Established in the year 1981, this reserve runs along approximately 7 kilometers (4.3496 miles) of the Gulf of Castellammare and the accompanying mountain chain. Zingaro has a diverse abundance of plant species and several endemic birds and animals. It boasts at least 39 bird species, mainly being the birds of prey, such as the common kestrel and peregrine falcon. Among the historical sites, there is the ancient Uzzo Grotto settlement. The reserve offers a panoramic view of the lovely bays, steep cliffs and the coast. Get ready for a hiking trip on the challenging steep paths at this reserve.
According to legend, Poseidon's son Eryx and Aphrodite are supposed to have founded this city. Like an eagle's nest, Erice is situated 751 m above Trapani. The highest point is Castello di Venere, the Castle of Venus. What was once the Temple of Venus was converted into a Norman castle after the Norman conquest. For the visitor Erice appears to be a little medieval jewel where a dozen pastry shops offer the marzipan specialty, 'Pasta delle Mandorle.'