Valderice
Welcome to Valderice: between sea, mountains and breathtaking landscapes
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Valderice, a municipality in the Trapani province of Sicily, which has about 11,500 inhabitants. Also known as "Paparedda", Valderice is one of the most populous centers in Agricino. The town extends for 53 km², offering exceptional landscapes, from hills to crystal-clear beaches, from wild fauna and flora to cliffs. In this description, I will guide you to discover the beauties of Valderice and everything you need to know about this wonderful town.
Physical geography
Valderice is only 8 km away from the Trapani capital and extends along the mouth of the Rio Forgia, just before the bay of Cornino and Monte Cofano. One of the reasons why this area is one of the most coveted for holidays is thanks to its green spaces. Among the pine forests of the Ragosia fraction or the municipal one, the atmosphere is one of peace and freshness, with the presence of landscape views framed by caves and abandoned chapels. The Urban Park of Mercy is a must-see, where you can admire the splendid panorama of the Gulf of Bonagia.
Beaches
As mentioned, Valderice offers a great variety of landscape scenarios. Among its Mediterranean pearls are the beaches, including Bonagia, Cortigliolo, and Rio Forgia. The coastal coastline of Valderice represents the stage where various activities take place, from sports to fishing, passing through sunny and relaxing days.
Bonagia
The fraction of Bonagia, one of the most picturesque places in Sicily, is a coastal village located about four kilometers from the town. Famous for its fish-based cuisine, this wonderful locality overlooks the Gulf of Bonagia, with a crystal-clear sea. In addition to the beauty of the village, Bonagia is famous for the ancient tuna fishery, now the seat of the Museum of Maritime Activities.
History
The history of Valderice is linked to that of Monte Erice, where over the centuries, the population moved into the fertile valley forming the first settlements in the countryside of Ericino. In 1943, after the Fascist period ended, the socialist Gaspare di Vita was elected as mayor, who did not solve the problem of Erice's existence as the capital of Ericino. In 1946, with the first political elections, a left-wing administration was formed, which re-discussed the problem of the capital. The municipality of Valderice was founded on February 15, 1955. Initially, it was called "Paparella San Marco", because it included the contiguous fraction of Paparella and San Marco, as well as others like Bonagia, Crocci and Chiesanuova. Only later, with Regional Law No. 1 of 1958, was the current name adopted.
Climate
The climate of Valderice is typical of the Mediterranean, with cold winters due to the altitude above sea level, almost 300 meters. Precipitation is intense, and summers are quite hot and humid. Only during heat waves and in the presence of sirocco winds can maximum temperatures reach around 40 degrees, but with low humidity.
Valderice is definitely a place to visit, both for its crystal-clear sea and natural landscapes. Its ancient and controversial history makes it a place different from others. I warmly invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of this locality and discover all its treasures.
