Capaci: Beach, Baroque and Archaeology

Capaci is a seaside resort on the coast of Isola delle Femmine. Several themes can guide your choice of destination: the free beach, the Baroque historic centre and the archaeological evidence. If you are looking for a hotel in Capaci, these themes can help you decide what matters most: would you like to focus mainly on the beach, are you interested in architectural history, or would you also like to explore archaeological traces?

Free Beach and Directions

Spiaggia libera di Capaci is the municipality’s only free beach and is also known as “Tien An Men”. You can reach the beach via the A29 towards Trapani, taking the Capaci exit. This route is a practical reference if the beach is one of the reasons for choosing this destination.

Baroque Architectural History

The historic centre features monumental Baroque architecture. The Chiesa Madre was built between 1741 and 1743 and has an octagonal floor plan. Octagonal means that the floor plan has eight sides. The church houses frescoes painted by Giuseppe Trisca in 1744. The construction period and the year of the frescoes mark two consecutive dates in the church’s history: the frescoes date from the year after the stated construction period. The Chiesa di San Rocco and Castello Pilo are also notable sights in Capaci. They broaden the view of the town’s cultural heritage beyond the Chiesa Madre.

Archaeological Traces Through Time

The necropolis in Contrada Ciachea bears witness to the area’s early human settlement. The caves at Pizzo Muletta are of great archaeological significance because they were used in prehistoric times, as well as during the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic periods. Another specific find comes from the Grotta della Paglia: fragments of black-gloss Greek pottery dating from the 6th to 5th century BC were unearthed there. The term “stile di Capaci” refers to a classification of ways of life in western Sicily that are closely connected with those in eastern Sicily. For a history-focused stay, the range therefore extends from traces of early settlement and finds from a specific period to a classification that relates ways of life in both parts of Sicily.

Collection and Local Speciality

Casa museo Villa Africa offers a different cultural focus: it displays traditional African art, as well as statues, masks and everyday objects. If you are planning a visit, check the current visiting arrangements beforehand. Vastedda is another local speciality associated with Capaci: this bread is seasoned with olive oil, anchovies, Caciocavallo cheese and pepper. Alongside the historical and archaeological themes, this adds a specific culinary aspect.

Discover more destinations: Ficarazzi, Lercara Friddi, Altofonte, Petralia Soprana, Parrini, Ciminna, Bagheria, Monreale.

For the wider travel overview: Palermo.