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Type: Antiquities, Medieval Village
Length: 8.5 Hours (traffic pending)
Walking: Difficult
Mobility: NO wheelchair
Guide: Licensed Guide
Language: English
Palermo Shore Excursion - This private cruise tour visits the important archaeological site of Segesta followed by the medieval village of Erice which is a popular destination for tourists due to its medieval
atmosphere, cool mountain air, beautiful pine woods and its
rich local craft traditions.
After meeting your guide you depart for the archeological site of Segesta. This city is thought to have been founded around the 12th century BC by the Elymi. It is believed that they came here by ship from ancient Troy (modern day Turkey) after their city was destroyed in the Trojan War.
The site at Segesta is divided into two areas. The southeastern section was predominantly residential, while the north was populated by public buildings, including the theater. The highlight of your visit is a 5th century BC Doric temple which is one of the finest remaining examples of classical architecture.
Next you drive to Erice which occupies a memorably beautiful site. Developed as a Phoenician and Hellenistic town, it sits on a plateau about 2,500 feet above the sea, offering glorious views. Enclosed within defensible bastions and walls, the town is a labyrinth of little cobbled streets and passages only wide enough to accommodate one person at a time in some places. The houses are packed one upon another and each has its own charming inner courtyard that can be guarded from the gaze of neighbors and therefore allowing family life to take its daily course in absolute privacy.
In ancient times Erice was famous for its temple where the Phoenicians worshiped Astarte, the Greeks venerated Aphrodite and the Romans celebrated Venus. Mount Eryx served as a point of reference for sailors who adopted Venus as their protector. At night, a large fire would be lit within the sacred precinct and used as a guiding beacon (or ancient lighthouse).
Later this afternoon you return to the pier in Palermo.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Sicily -Palermo tours and Sicily -Palermo Shore Excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Sicily -Palermo tour using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.
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Shore Trip Timing is approximate based on your interests & traffic
- Drive to Segesta - 1.5 Hours
- Visit Segesta - 1 Hour
- Drive to Erice - 1 Hour
- Tour Erice - 2 Hours
- Free time for Lunch - 1 Hour
- Return to Palermo - 2 Hours
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