Erice (750 m. above sea level) dominates the whole wide and fertile western end of Sicily. Its incomparable panorama ranges over the sinuous coastline of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the sickle-shaped city of Trapani, the shining salt-pans, the Aegadian Islands set in their cobalt-blue waters, as far as Pantelleria and the North African coast across the sea. Founded by Eryx, Venus’ legendary son, and enclosed in gigantic walls by Daedalus, it was the city of the Elimi. The cult of the goddess of fertility originated with them: Astarte for the Phoenicians, Aphrodite for the Greeks, and Venus for the Romans. A temple was erected to Venus to which sailors went in devout pilgrimage. The Erice stronghold was fought over by Carthaginians and Romans. After their naval victory at the Aegadian Islands, the Romans enriched the temple, which is reached from the villa “balio” where the Medieval castle (8th century) also stands. The castle was the seat of the “baiulo” (Governor). Among the most notable monuments are the ancient cyclopic walls, part of which are of Phoenician origin, and the Cathedral dating from the early 14th century, with an isolated belltower of the 13th century and in the interior a marble panel by G. Mancino and a Madonna and Child by F. Laurana. There are works of interest in the Museum (Gagini’s Annunciation, remains of the Temple of Venus, archaic inscriptions) and in the adjoining library. To the fascination of its centuries-old history Erice adds the advantages of its salub rious pleasant climate. Thick pine woods make the air pure and balmy and, as a consequence, Erice has become very popular as a health resort. A timeless peace permeates the narrow medieval alleys, the small courtyards brimming over with flowers, the old, moss-encrusted arches, and the woody gorges.