Trapani, Coastal commune in northwestern Sicily, Italy
Trapani is a coastal town in northwestern Sicily with a distinctive sickle-shaped harbor. The settlement stretches along the shoreline with white buildings, narrow streets, and vast salt basins inland.
The Phoenicians established a trading post that later flourished under Roman rule. During the Arab period, the region became an important center for salt production and fishing.
The name comes from the Greek word Drepanon, meaning sickle, and the harbor still has this curved shape today. Fishermen dock their boats in the morning, and the fresh catch is sold directly to nearby restaurants.
The central area with old streets is easy to explore on foot, especially in early morning when fishermen dock their boats. The harbor area allows visitors to walk directly along the water and observe the daily activity.
Old windmills beside the salt basins date from the 18th century and still pump water to fill the basins. The strong coastal winds drive the mill blades, creating a distinctive creaking sound heard across the area.
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