Erice, Medieval hilltop commune in Trapani, Sicily, Italy
Erice is a hilltop commune in the province of Trapani in Sicily, sitting 751 meters (2464 feet) above sea level. The lanes are cobbled and narrow, and two fortresses stand above the Mediterranean.
The settlement was called Eryx in ancient times, became Cebel Hamid in 831 under the Aghlabids, and then Monte San Giuliano under the Normans. The current name was restored in 1934 and reconnects with the ancient designation.
The science center brings researchers from around the world and has promoted molecular gastronomy and theoretical physics since its foundation. The town was renamed after physicist Ettore Majorana, who was born here and whose name now appears on the center.
The cable car from Trapani brings visitors up and shows the view of the Tyrrhenian coast and the Egadi Islands along the way. Good footwear helps with the slopes and smooth cobblestones in the town center.
The old town counts around 60 churches in a small area, including the Gothic Chiesa Madre from the year 1314. Parts of the fortifications date back to the Elymians and Phoenicians and still shape the townscape today.
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