Ligny Tower, Coastal watchtower in Trapani, Italy.
Ligny Tower is a square-based watchtower at the western tip of Trapani with four corner turrets and walls that descend toward the Mediterranean. Inside, a museum displays archaeological finds spanning prehistoric periods, Punic and Roman times, and the Middle Ages through the work of different civilizations.
Spain built this defensive structure between 1671 and 1672 under Prince Claude Lamoral to protect the city from Barbary corsair attacks. The construction was part of a larger strategy to fortify Sicily's coastline against maritime threats.
The tower served as a critical defense point for the city, and its position at the western edge shaped how residents understood the boundary between their home and the sea. Today, the museum spaces inside reflect this historical relationship between the community and maritime protection.
Reaching the structure means walking along the coastal road, which has restricted vehicle traffic during summer months, making the approach more pleasant. Entry is free, so you can simply walk in without advance booking.
From this location, you can see Mount Erice, San Vito Lo Capo, and the Egadi Islands stretching across the horizon on clear days. The view explains why Spanish engineers chose this exact spot for their defensive installation.
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