Castellammare del Golfo

Castellammare del Golfo (Sicilian: Casteddammari; Latin: Emporium Segestanorum / Emporium Aegestensium) is a town and comune in the Trapani Province of Sicily. The name is roughly translated "Sea-Fortress (castle [on the] sea) of the Gulf", deriving from the medieval fortress in the harbor. The body of water it sits upon also takes its name from the fortress, Golfo di Castellammare. In ancient times, Castellammare was the harbor of Segesta, one of the main towns of the Elymian people. Fishing has been important in Castellammare del Golfo dating back to ancient times. Today the town's economy continues to be based on fishing with the addition of tourism. The small town is noted, however, for having been the birthplace of many American Mafia figures, including Salvatore Maranzano, Stefano Magaddino and Joseph Bonanno. From this name comes also the Castellamarese war, fought by Joe Masseria clan against Salvatore Maranzano clan for the leadership of the Italian Mafia in New York City. However it must be noted that in the past 20 years Castellammare del Golfo has become an important tourist location as it is conveniently situated in between Palermo and Trapani. The city itself was founded by the Arabs and its original name was "Al Madarig" (city of steps). In fact from its beautiful marina/port, abounding in restaurants and bars, which is named Cala Marina one goes up either winding steps or long staircases or streets that lead to Piazza Petrolo with its magnificent views or towards the Villa Comunale (main central gardens) where the city center lies with many shops, cafes and restaurants. Places to visit nearby are Segesta (the only Greek Temple in the world still standing although the roof was never constructed) and its amphitheater where performances are still held. Trapani circa 35 km to the west; Palermo circa 30 km to the east; Scopello with its tonnara (tuna fishery) to the west. San Vito Lo Capo to the west. Beaches such as Guidaloca and Mazza di Sciacca to the west. La Riserva dello Zingaro also to the west with its bay beaches only accessible on foot or boat. Erice, a historic village, located 750 metres (2,460 ft) above sea level. From Castellammare del Golfo one can take a boat trip (mini crociera) departing from Cala Marina to the Egadi Islands situated in front of Trapani. To the east, the gulf of Castellammare has a stretch of 30 kilometres (19 mi) of white sandy beaches. Castellammare del Golfo has also been a location for various films, the following are the names of a few of them: 1. Turi della Tonnara (1946) 2. Ocean`s Twelve 3. Avenging Angelo 4. My name is Tanino 5. Cefalonia (TV series) 6. Inspector Montalbano, episode "The Sense of Touch" 7. Largo Winch References External links Castellammare's Official Website