Excursion Ancient segesta tour at Trapani
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore the splendid archaeological site of Segesta during a panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion to this ancient city.
Trapani, City Centre, Ligny Tower, Egadi, Lazzaretto and Torre della Colombaia Islands
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Segesta. En route, take a brief sightseeing drive through Trapani's city centre and stop for photos at the Ligny Tower, or 'Torri de Ligny', a massive, quadrangular tower built by Prince di Ligny in 1671. One of the city's most beautiful panoramic viewpoints, the Ligny Tower offers splendid vistas of the Egadi, Lazzaretto and Torre della Colombaia islands in the distance.
Segesta
Called 'Egesta' by the Greeks and 'Segesta' by the Romans, the city was, with Erice and Entella, one of the most advanced centres of the ancient Elymian civilisation (a combination of the Trojans and Phoenicians, who mixed with the Sicans of western Sicily). The city stood on a vast plateau between the two peaks of Monte Barbaro, a very well-defended position. Likely built between the 5th and 4th centuries B.C., Segesta City was surrounded by walls of the Classic or Hellenistic Age.
Archaeological Site, Doric Temple, Theatre, Free Time
Upon arrival in Segesta, take a guided tour of its expansive archaeological site. Along the way, visit the magnificent, very well-preserved Doric Temple, whose majestic appearance and dominating position bestow great nobility on this ancient landscape. Leaving the Doric Temple, board a local shuttle bus for the short transfer to the Theatre, which is situated on the northern slope of Monte Barbaro. Following your guided tour of the Theatre, return to the archaeological site via shuttle bus. Upon arrival, some free time is made available for independent exploration. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Trapani, City Centre, Ligny Tower, Egadi, Lazzaretto and Torre della Colombaia Islands, Segesta, Archaeological Site, Doric Temple, Monte Barbaro, Theatre
Note
Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity and walking for approximately 984 yards (about 900 metres), at times over uneven, cobblestoned surfaces and steep alleys, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and shuttle bus, and at the sites visited. Walking in Segesta is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Please note that guides may have accents reflecting their regional backgrounds, which adds to the diversity and richness of the experience.