Ligny Tower (Torre di Ligny)
Via Torre di Ligny 37, Trapani, Italy, 91100
Built to defend against pirate raids, this squat quadrangular tower is where Trapani ends. Walk across a narrow strip of land to the westernmost point in town, and you’ll encounter the restored watchtower and the civic archaeological museum inside. When open, the museum—and the views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from the top—make visiting worthwhile.
The basics
With its unusual design (courtesy of a Flemish architect) and sea views, the tower is one of the most photogenic spots in Trapani, making it a popular stop on some sightseeing and photography tours. About a 30-minute walk from the city’s train station, it’s also easy to visit independently. Inside the museum, which has a nominal entrance fee, you’ll find two floors of prehistoric finds and Greek and Roman archaeological objects, including amphorae and a bronze helmet.
Things to know before you go
The museum doesn’t necessarily keep regular opening hours—don’t count on it being open.
Bring a camera or phone to snap pictures of the tower and surrounding sea.
On a clear day you can see the Egadi islands from the tower rooftop.
Bring a bathing suit, as swimmable inlets and a beach are near the tower.
How to get there
The Ligny Tower is located at the western tip of Trapani, overlooking the sea. To reach it, head toward the seaside from the city center along the Lungomare Dante Alighieri, Via Carolina, and Via Torre di Ligny. It’s about a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from the Trapani train station, and roughly 20 minutes from the Trapani port.
When to get there
Visit the tower during the spring or early fall, when the weather is mild and Trapani is less crowded. Summer in Sicily can be fun but punishingly hot and full of vacationing Italians and other Europeans. During Easter, Trapani hosts the Procession of the Mysteries, a 400-year-old tradition with 20 floats.
Swimming near the Ligny Tower
If you need to cool off after walking to the Ligny Tower, head to the “Vasca du Parrinu,” a small bay with swimmable inlets nearby, or the Torre di Ligny Beach, a sliver of sand situated at the foot of the narrow land bridge connecting the tower to the mainland.
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