Segesta: Between History and Nature

DESCRIPTION
Discover Segesta: A hike combining archaeology and nature in the heart of Sicily.

Geographical Location
We are in Sicily, in the municipality of Calatafimi Segesta, in the province of Trapani. The ancient city of Segesta is located on Monte Barbaro, a place of extraordinary beauty, nestled on a hilly system that dominates the surrounding landscape. Its position, between green hills and open spaces, makes this archaeological site one of the most fascinating in Sicily.

Hike
Our itinerary is divided into two parts: a visit to the archaeological site of Segesta and a trek to the Pispisa and Pelato mountains, offering exceptional views of the entire area.
The first part of the hike takes us to explore the main monuments of Segesta:
The Temple: Built between 430 and 420 BC, it is one of the few ancient structures that have survived in perfect condition. In Doric style, it faces east and features 14 columns on the long sides and 6 on the short sides, with a base diameter of almost two meters. The absence of a cella and roof makes it unique.
The Theater: Built from local limestone, it is a typical example of Greek architecture, with a cavea that could accommodate around 4,000 spectators. During the Roman era, it underwent modifications, such as the expansion of the orchestra. In medieval times, the area was reoccupied by a residential settlement.
The Agora: This impressive space, surrounded by porticoes, was the heart of public and administrative life in the city. Here stood religious buildings, honorary monuments, and structures for civic assemblies.
The Castle: Built in the 13th century, it was the residence of the medieval lord who ruled the area. Today, only the ground floor remains, but its strategic position on the summit of Monte Barbaro makes it a site of great historical interest.
The Church of San Leone: Built in 1442 as a rural chapel, it fell into ruin by the early 19th century. Its simple single-nave structure is an example of medieval religious architecture.
The Mosque: Dating back to the 12th century, it is the only medieval mosque discovered in Sicily. Built during the Norman domination, it was destroyed after just a century, following the arrival of a Christian lord.
After visiting the archaeological park, we begin the trek that will take us to the summits of Monte Pispisa and Monte Pelato. From here, the panorama opens onto a unique landscape: the monuments of Segesta, the surrounding hills, and the distant sea create an unforgettable scene.

History
The origins of Segesta remain uncertain, but it is known to have been inhabited as early as the 9th century BC. According to legend, it was founded by Trojan refugees, who named it Aegesta. Historically, the city was inhabited by the Elymians.
During the First Punic War (260 BC), Segesta allied with Rome, which protected it from Carthaginian reconquest attempts. Thanks to their shared Trojan origins, the city was granted the status of a free city, exempt from taxes.
Destroyed by the Vandals in the 5th century, Segesta was never rebuilt to its original size. However, a small settlement survived, and in the 12th century, during the Kingdom of Sicily, a castle was built, becoming the center of a medieval village.
The site was then forgotten until 1574, when the historian Tommaso Fazello identified it, restoring its place among Sicily’s archaeological treasures.

ITINERARY
From the park entrance (270 m), follow the trail to Porta di Valle. Continue ascending Monte Barbaro to reach the Theater of Segesta (400 m). Nearby, you’ll also find the Castle of Calatabarbaro, the Church of San Leone, the Mosque, the Agora, and the House of the Navarch. After visiting these sites, return to the starting point and then climb to the Temple of Segesta (308 m).

After the visit, exit the archaeological park and take the paved road towards Bruca for about 1.2 km, then turn left onto a dirt road marked for Agriturismo Tenute Pispisa (245 m). Follow the straight uphill road, then at the top, turn right and take the trail to Monte Pispisa (514 m). Continue on the comfortable trail to Monte Pelato (420 m). Descend and join the Antica Trasversale Sicula, returning to the junction marked for Agriturismo Tenute Pispisa and then to the park entrance.

EXCURSION DATE
March 2, 2025

STARTING POINT
Entrance of the Segesta Archaeological Park

REFRESHMENT POINT
At the park entrance

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
For the trekking section to Monte Pispisa, use our GPX track, as the trails are not marked.

SAFETY TIPS
The feasibility of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain terrain, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before setting out, consult the relevant tourist offices and/or reference mountain huts.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, meaning the route was completed under the best trail and weather conditions of that day. Always assess the situation on-site.
Also, remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training, and equipment.
It is advisable to inform someone of your planned itinerary.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have equipment suitable for the route, weather conditions, and season: windproof and/or rainproof jacket, map and/or GPS device, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking boots, first aid kit, appropriate clothing, gloves, and a backpack with food and drinks.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
We did not find any paper maps; use the Outdoor.Active or Komoot app.

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.parcodisegesta.com/

HOW TO ARRIVE
From Castellammare del Golfo, take the SS731 and then join the E90 motorway towards Trapani. Exit at the Segesta sign and follow the directions to the Archaeological Park.

PARKING AREA
At the entrance of the Segesta Archaeological Park
GPS coordinates: 37.941630, 12.835902

Parcheggio del parco

Alla Porta di Valle

Vista su parcheggio e tempio

Teatro di Segesta

Teatro di Segesta

Vista verso il Monte Inici e Castellamare del Golfo

Il Castello di Calatabarbaro

Si ritorna al parcheggio

Si sale al Tempio di Segesta

Il Tempio di Segesta

Il Tempio di Segesta

Si sale verso il Monte Pispisa

Vista dall'alto del sito archeologico

Torretta sul Monte Pelato

Si rientra al punto di partenza