Trapani gate of Erice
The Trapani Gate of Erice, inserted in the Elymian-Punic walls, constitutes the main entrance to the city and is located near the Piazza della Matrice.
Given the absence of historical sources, its construction is placed between the Norman age, when the city was fortified, and the fourteenth century, when the city flourished. The megalithic construction of the base of the gate and the side towers, as well as the austere military architecture, confirm the ancient historical dating. Furthermore, the pincer scheme in which the door is structured between two protective bastions suggests a probable construction of the tower in medieval times. masonry. The slightly pointed arch of the door is made of soft limestone blocks. A tompagnato window surmounts the door on the left side of which there is a votive shrine with Doric pilasters that support the frieze and the cornice.
