Salemi stands on a hill 442 meters above sea level in a very fertile area planted mostly with vineyards. History – This area must have been the site of the ancient Elymian city of Alicia, recorded in the sources but lacking findings proving its existence. Halfway between Selinunte and Segesta, perpetually at odds, it could only side with one or the other and, by virtue of a common Elymian origin, chose the latter. The present name is of Arab origin and indicates a “healthy and safe city.” Over the centuries Salemi had the good fortune to remain, albeit with ups and downs, a free and independent city despite the many dominations that have made the history of Sicily. In Norman times it became a state town, the seat of the king’s court, and the majestic castle that still dominates the town was built. In 1860 Garibaldi also arrived here and named it, symbolically, the first capital of Italy. In 1968 it suffered severe damage from the earthquake that devastated the Belice Valley. On that occasion, the Mother Church, located near the Castle, was also destroyed. Must-see – The Church and the Jesuit College deserve special note: the former has a rich Baroque façade and the latter houses a museum where works of art that escaped the earthquake, including Domenico Gagini’s Madonna of Candlemas, are preserved. Going down the castle street, we come to the Rabato district, which is interesting for having kept its Islamic flavor intact. City Museum Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Closed: Sunday and Monday Free admission