Travel Guide Alcamo

It is a steep town with a beautiful view of the surrounding vineyards and today has a population of over 45,000. Originally, it seems, it was a fortified farm set up at the time of the Arab domination, but its birth dates back to the 14th century, with the erection of a castle. The town was then able to develop agriculture and trade. The surrounding region produces a famous dry white wine. The cellars are numerous. The stroll through the city is made according to the monuments, first of all the basilica of Santa Maria Assunta of the 14th century which was modified several times, in particular in the 17th and 18th centuries. The whole complex is worth a visit, especially the interior for its rich decoration. Alcamo has an interesting artistic heritage, with works by the Gagini brothers, Antonio Serpotta, Pietro Novelli, Giuseppe Rende and Borremans inside the many churches. You can also visit the castle of the Counts of Modica, which welcomed Charles V in September 1535, and which dominates the public garden. In the reserve of the Acalmo woods, the Calatubo castle, owned by the Ventimiglia family (1300), perched on Mount Bonifato, has preserved its robust appearance from the top of its hill. Beneath the ruins of the castle are the remains of a large Arabic cistern called "la Funtanazza".