Trapani
The 2 sea city was an ancient Phoenician port of call named Darbase (thorn) and later Drepanon (scythe) because of its sharp tongue of land jutting out to sea which protects the natural harbour.
"Trapani, primitive and ancient port of call,
lies on the sea which surrounds it on all sides and which would enter
it completely but for a thin bridge of land. The port is on the southern
side, a peaceful port without movement. Here, a large number of wooden
boats float safely, away from the winds. The sea here remains calm, whilst
out at sea storms rage. In this port an infinite number of fish can be
found. Large tuna nets are set out to catch them. Similarly, from sea
around Trapani, first class coral can be extracted. Behind the port is
are the salt fields”.
It was with these words that Al'Idris, Arabic geographer to King Ruggiero's
court described Trapani and its economy.
