Erice, Sicily - Part I

May 7, 2017 ~ 7:00 AM Docked in Trapani, Sicily

On another clear and sunny day we awoke to find Sea Cloud, legendary windjammer

 the 'cruise ship of millionaires', had berthed next to us overnight.

  Sadly, she sailed from the harbor later under power and we didn't get to see them set

 the sails - I imagine that's a lovely sight.

The day was promising and for the morning shore excursion we'd signed up to
 visit the medieval town of Erice balanced on the mountain top above Trapani, 
the Egadi islands and famous salt pans visible in the distance.
 There was a problem with the cable car, not mechanical thankfully, just someone
 who didn't show up for work on time! We were bussed to the top around narrow
 hairpin bends - took the cable car back down later.

When it takes me two parts to post the story of a special place, you just know I

 was out there breathing in local color, history, and taking many photos to
 share with you! Erice was such a place and I loved it.

The early morning was quiet, a lovely time to wander through the winding streets.

The Gothic style Mother Church of Erice - construction began in 1312 - was 
breathtaking. I thought this the most beautiful church interior in Sicily. 

At its heart, true treasures await the visitor, 70 precious works of silver, jewelry,
 alabaster, ivory, paintings, frescoes, sculpture, coral, gold and silk embroidery from
 the 14th to 19th centuries. 

It is known as the city's museum and I could see why.

More later on this lovely morning in Erice. . . . . . castles and wildflowers, views across 

the Mediterranean, the olive farm for a most memorable Italian lunch!