Tripi: Necropolis, Castle and Historic Routes

Tripi reveals itself through a range of archaeological, landscape, and religious themes. In the hamlet of Cardusa, the Necropoli di Tripi preserves evidence of the ancient city of Abakainon; at Castello di Tripi, the elevated setting and views take center stage. An interactive museum, routes to historic sites, and several churches round out these highlights. When planning your trip, it helps to distinguish between the sites according to their respective themes.

The Necropolis of Abakainon

The Necropoli di Tripi comprises about 80 tombs, which are generally well preserved. They date from between the late 4th and early 2nd centuries BC; some of the tombs are particularly monumental. The site therefore spans several centuries. The necropolis is associated with ancient Abakainon and is located in the hamlet of Cardusa.

The Museo Archeologico Santi Furnari di Tripi is an interactive archaeological museum. All the exhibits come from the Necropolis of Abakainon. The museum and necropolis thus offer two different ways to explore the same archaeological theme: the burial sites themselves and the exhibits associated with them. The archaeological area of Abakainon in Tripi is considered a visitable archaeological park accessible to interested visitors.

Castello di Tripi and the Routes

Castello di Tripi lies 610 m above sea level at the highest point of a ridge. The ridge separates the Tallarita and Mazzarrà streams. From this elevated position, views extend across the Tyrrhenian coast from Tindari to Milazzo and onward to the mountains inland. The elevated setting, the coastal views, and the outlook inland define the castle’s relationship with the landscape.

A route description last updated on May 16, 2019, lists an archaeological trail from Campogrande to the Necropoli di Tripi and a historic route from Tripi to Castello di Tripi. For the historic route, it mentions views of the Gulf of Milazzo, Tindari, and the Aeolian Islands. The nature trail follows the Tallarita route to ancient rock-cut wine presses dating from the 14th century, Rocca Tallarita, and Grotta di San Cono. It also passes through more than three kilometers of woodland. The routes therefore have different destinations: the historic route leads to the castle, while the nature trail links several archaeological and scenic sites. Check current trail conditions when planning a hike.

The castle can be reached via Via Pianolo. The final stretch, about 1 km long, follows an unpaved road and must be covered on foot. Take this walk into account when planning your day. The origins of the castle are uncertain; a text by the geographer Idrisi dated to 1154 is considered the only document mentioning a medieval fortress at this site.

Churches and Religious Traditions

The Chiesa Madre di San Vincenzo Martire di Spagna contains part of the saint’s skull as well as an old terracotta bust of the Madonna del Capello. The church was partially rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake; its bell tower has retained its original appearance. The Chiesa della S.S. Trinità dates from the 16th and 17th centuries, and the Chiesa dell’Annunziata from the 17th century. The Chiesa di San Biagio has been classified as a “bene monumentale” by the relevant heritage authority.

The Processione di San Vincenzo is also one of Tripi’s religious traditions. It takes place on the first Sunday in September. Bearers carry the saint’s statue through the streets, accompanied by a band. If you are planning your trip around this date, check the event details in advance.

Practical Information

To reach the necropolis by car, take the SS113 or the A20 and exit at Falcone. Then follow the SP102 toward Campogrande and the SP115 to Via Alcide De Gasperi; after 1.3 km, a sign points left toward the necropolis. The opening hours of the Museo Archeologico Santi Furnari must be confirmed by phone. Call before your visit so you can work the museum into your day’s itinerary.

Discover more destinations: Brolo, Chianchitta-pallio, Furnari, San Giorgio, San Leonardo, Vulcano Piano, Castroreale, Pollara

For the broader travel overview: Messina.