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.