In front of the Marsala coast, in the area of the salt pans, some small islands huddle together to form a lagoon: this is the Oriented Nature Reserve Stagnone Islands. Of these, the most important is certainly Mothia. Its role in history is not indifferent. Because of its strategic location in the Mediterranean, the Carthaginians wanted to make it their own trading port. Unfortunately, however, Mothia suffered the consequences of the struggle between Greeks and Carthaginians for dominance over Sicily. When it was attacked and destroyed by Dionysius of Syracuse, its inhabitants moved to the promontory in front, where today’s Marsala arose. The remnants of its civilization and thriving economy have been unearthed by a long series of archaeological excavations, largely due to the work of Joseph Whitaker, who had previously purchased theisland. The Whitaker Museum – In his house today is housed the Museum, which collects artifacts unearthed during various excavation campaigns. A model will first show you the entire island of Mothia, so that you can more easily locate the sites of greatest historical importance. The Museum preserves a large number of artifacts from prehistoric times, materials found in the settlement, funerary furnishings from the Thofet and Archaic Necropolis, ceramics, coins, sculptures, jewelry and votive stelae. A great boast of the island, it is the famous Youth of Mothia. The 1.81 m tall white marble statue from Anatolia is missing its limbs. There are still many doubts about its origin and the subject depicted. However, the tunic and complex hairstyle suggest a high-ranking subject. The author, if not Greek, was nonetheless influenced by the Greek “severe style” and possessed an uncommon plastic sense. The proportions are harmonious and elegant. Very beautiful is the pleated and well-drawn tunic on the body. It probably dates from the 5th century BC. The island is easily traversed on foot. The dense vegetation in the interior makes for a pleasant visit. While walking you will encounter: The House of Mosaics: two mosaics from the 4th century B.C. formed of black and white pebbles depicting animal fight scenes. The Cothon: small dry dock with a rectangular shape. Remains of fortifications: although its geographical location was already a natural protection, starting in the mid-4th century and through later interventions, the city was surrounded by walls. Some remains of these can be seen to the north and south. Some of the towers placed along the perimeter are also visible. Cappidazzu shrine: the area includes buildings from various periods whose use is still unknown. However, the presence of some altars suggests a sacred place intended for offerings to deities. The Thofet: sacred area where firstborn males were sacrificed to the gods. Numerous votive stelae have been found here. Getting there From the landing stage located near the salt pans of Marsala, the special service between the island and the mainland departs.