Erice
Erice: An Ancient Hilltop City
Welcome to Erice, a small Sicilian town situated on top of a hill! With a population of just under 30,000 people, Erice is one of the most charming municipalities in Sicily, with a history dating back to the time of the Trojans and the Elimi.
Physical Geography
Territory
The municipality of Erice extends over a vast area that includes many localities, including Valderice, Custonaci, San Vito Lo Capo, Buseto Palizzolo, and part of Castellammare del Golfo. The surrounding area is known as Agro ericino and until 1846 it covered about 40,000 hectares and was divided into fiefs and districts. The Mediterranean Sea touches the coast for 26 miles, between the beaches of Castellammare del Golfo and San Giuliano.
History
Origins
According to legend, Erice was founded by Trojan exiles who fled towards the Mediterranean Sea, as they found it the ideal place to settle and would have joined the native population giving rise to the people of Elimi. The name of the city would derive from that of a mythological giant, son of Aphrodite and Bute, killed by Heracles.
From 1167 to 1934: The Name Monte San Giuliano
From 1167 until 1934, Erice was known as Monte San Giuliano. Most of the population lived downstream, in the town of Casa Santa, adjacent to the city of Trapani.
The City Center
The center of Erice is located on top of Mount Erice, but only a small number of inhabitants live in the city area. You can reach the center by a modern cable car or by a panoramic road that winds up the mountain. The historic center of the city is very charming, from the cobbled streets to the ancient churches, and you can also find the famous castle of Venus and the Tower of Frederick.
The Expansion of the Municipality
In the 1940s and 1950s, many portions of the city broke away and gave rise to new municipalities, including Valderice, Custonaci, San Vito Lo Capo, and Buseto Palizzolo. However, Erice remains a cultural and historical reference point for many people in Sicily, Italy, and around the world.
If you are thinking of visiting Sicily, do not miss the opportunity to visit Erice and discover its history, culture, and natural beauty. You won't regret it!
