Marsala
- Marsala
- City
Marsala
A bubbling seaport city, is situated in the westernmost point of Sicily, where Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, and Romans left their footsteps.
It is best known as the source of Marsala wine.
Marsala occupies the site of Lilybaeum, the principal stronghold of the Carthaginians in Sicily, after the abandonment of Mozia.
It was a starting point for the Roman expeditions against Carthage, and under Roman rule, it enjoyed considerable prosperity.
The Arabs named it “Marsala”, meaning “Marsa Allah” (port of Allah), also meaning “great port”.
On May 11, 1860, Giuseppe Garibaldi and his “thousand”, landed at Marsala and began his campaign to overthrow the Bourbon rule in Sicily as a step toward Italy’s unification.
Remains of the ancient Lilybaeum include fragments of the city walls, squared stones, as well as foundations of buildings between the walls and the sea.
The so-called grotta of the Sibyl must be mentioned because these sites attract archeologists and tourists for the study of Phoenician culture.
It is also nice that the sun shines 300 days per year here. So come and breathe the gentle sea breeze and experience the bubbling atmosphere of one of most beautiful Sicilian cities.
Make a visit to the historical center, where you will find: the Cathedral, dedicated to St. Thomas of Canterbury, the Museo degli Arazzi (Tapestry Museum).
There are 35 kilometres (22 miles) of coastline and, particularly in the Stagnone Lagoon.
It is possible to catch rare and high quality fish, which can be tasted in restaurants and trattorias in the entire area.
Also, do not miss out on the vineyards and local shops because they produce the best Marsala wine.
The zones of Segesta, Erice, Selinunte, the Egadi Islands, and Pantelleria are easily reached from Marsala, so what are you waiting for?
