Marettimo was known in antiquity with various names, including Hiera ("the sacred") and among the Arab geographers with the name of Djazirat Malîtmah. The current name of the island could originate from the fusion of the words mare - thyme, a hypothesis that draws its formulation from the abundance of thyme present on this island.

The ancient populations of this small area of ​​the Mediterranean (Fenici, Elimi, Sicani) gave it the character of sacredness that can still be enjoyed today. According to the Trapanese theory of the Odyssey, Marèttimo would coincide, from the geographical point of view, with Ithaca, the homeland of Ulysses. It would be the same hero to indicate the position.

The Romans built a military garrison in Marettimo after the first Punic war, around 150 BC. whose purpose was to control the route between Tunisia and Rome. The complex, known as Case Romane, is located upstream of the village, at an altitude of about 250 meters and consists of two small buildings and a small church, later, of the Norman period.

Several authors quote Hierà as the place where the treaty of peace between Romans and Carthaginians was signed after the dramatic battle of the Egadi islands of 10 March 241 BC, which saw Annone and his ships defeated by Roman ships equipped with rostra and commanded by Lutazio Catullo.

The Castle of Punta Troia, built during the Norman period (about 1140) built on the remains of a pre-existing watchtower, was later used as a prison.

 

Geographical constitution

Marettimo far from Trapani about 20 miles, covers 12 square kilometers, is 7.5 km long and 2.5 km wide. The highest point of the island is Monte Falcone with its 686 mt. It is the most mountainous, wooded and geographically far from all the islands of the Egadi archipelago. Currently Marettimo has 684 residents (2011).

They say of Marettimo

Marettimo is the wildest and most untouched of the Egadi islands, its very high rocky walls, which enclose the dense forest at their extremity, which are embedded in them contain caves of unspeakable beauty are just a glimpse of what this island offers. they immerse themselves in a sea that only marettimo can offer, limpidity and colors give unique emotions.

What to see at marettimo

  • Visit the numerous sea caves with one of the many boat trips, making stops to swim in the most picturesque caves.
  • Do at least one dive to admire the spectacular underwater landscape of the island.
  • Visit the archaeological site of "Case Romane" and the Byzantine church.
  • Visit the promontory and the Castle of Punta Troia, recently restored.
  • Admire the Egadi from the highest peak of the archipelago. Visit the typical museum of the sea.
  • Take a walk towards Pizzo Falcone or Pizzo Madunnuzza.
  • Immerse yourself in the wonderful waters of Cala Bianca.

From our boats, daily excursions will allow you to admire the beauty of the island.

For a tailor-made tour or private boat trips just for you and your friends, choose our Exclusive services.

Favignana -Tonnara Florio

The former Tuna-fish Establishment: Tonnara Florio

Favignana -Cala Rossa Bay

one of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Levanzo - Genoese Cave (Grotta del Genovese)

It was discovered in 1949 to the northwest by the small seaside village of Levanzo.

Favignana - Lovers’ Cave - Grotta degli Innamorati

A splendid cave, crystal clear sea, a romantic story.

Favignana - Cala Azzurra Bay

The bay that takes its name from the color of the sea

Favignana - Bue Marino Bay

One of the most particular dreams of Favignana.

Levanzo - Capo Grosso

The most suggestive cliff of the egadi

The nature reserve of the Saline Trapani and Paceco

The nature reserve that contains a thousand-year history.

The history of the Florio Family

A successful entrepreneurial dynasty

Favignana Island

The butterfly-shaped island, wonder of the Egadi

Favignana - Beach of Lido Burrone

Lido Burrone, the equipped beach of Favignana.

Favignana - Cala San Nicola beach

Small beach on the south side.

Favignana - Grotta Perciata

A lovely place to immerse yourself in contact with nature.

Colicchia Pastry Ice cream Granita trapani

The historic Trapanese pastry and the granita that awakens the taste buds.

Cous Cous Fest San Vito Lo Capo

A fantastic combination of flavors and traditions

Castle of Santa Caterina Favignana

The Castle of Santa Caterina is the manor that dominates the island

Natural Reserve of Mountain Cofano

The perfect combination of history and nature

Zingaro Nature Reserve

One of the most magical corners of Sicily where land and sea dance in unison

San Vito Lo Capo City

The ideal destination for your holidays in Sicily.

Gioacchino Cataldo Last Rais of the Tonnara of Favignana

Gioacchino Cataldo was the last "rais", the eighth in the history of the Florio-owned plant.

Favignana - Beach of Scalo Cavallo

The beach born from an old tuff quarry

Erice

Discovering the "Medieval village of Erice"

Favignana - Praia Beach

beach near the center of the village

Favignana - Bay of Cala Rotonda

When Mother Nature creates wonders!

Island of Levanzo

Levanzo, the most romantic and small island of the Egadi

Cala Fredda (Fridda) Beach - Levanzo

Cala Fredda a small beach composed of rocks.

Cala Minnola Beach - Levanzo

The beach known for its pine forest overlooking the sea.

Favignana - Punta Longa Beach

Known for its enchanting and characteristic fishing harbour.

Favignana - Cala Grande Beach

Perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility.

Scopello

Scopello - La Tonnara

Place where sea and history meet in a unique beauty.

Scopello - Faraglioni beach

Little corner of paradise.

Scopello - Guidaloca beach

Seaside village of Castellammare del Golfo

One of the most wonderful seaside villages in Italy.