Marsala

Marsala is a coastal commune at the western tip of Sicily where cobbled streets run from the harbor through the old center to Piazza della Repubblica. Low buildings of sandstone and tufa stretch along the waterfront while vineyards and olive groves cover the flat countryside inland.

The settlement arose on the ruins of the ancient Phoenician colony of Lilybaion, founded in the 4th century BC and later a major Roman port. In 1860, Giuseppe Garibaldi landed here with his volunteers and began the campaign that led to Italian unification.

Its name comes from the Arabic Marsa Allāh, meaning Port of God, a reminder of medieval Moorish rule in Sicily. Locals gather in Piazza della Repubblica beneath the stone facades of the cathedral and baroque townhouses, while narrow alleys lead to traditional wine cellars that open their doors to visitors.

The old town is easy to explore on foot as most wine cellars and points of interest lie within a short walk from the main square. On summer days, sea breezes along the waterfront promenade provide relief from the heat while narrow streets in the center offer some shade.

In the Stagnone Lagoon north of town, salt has been harvested since Roman times using shallow pools still operated with traditional windmills. The briny waters reflect sunlight in shades of pink and red caused by microorganisms thriving in the salt pans.

Location: Free Municipal Consortium of Trapani

Location: Province of Trapani

Capital city: Marsala

Elevation above the sea: 3 m

Shares border with: Petrosino, Salemi, Trapani, Mazara del Vallo, Misiliscemi

Website: https://comune.marsala.tp.it

GPS coordinates: 37.79806,12.43417

Latest update: December 15, 2025 01:08