Custonaci is a small town in western Sicily, in the province of Trapani, set on a rocky hill about 186 metres above sea level near the eastern end of the Gulf of Bonagia. Its landscape links the inland slopes of Monte Cofano with a low coastline close by, giving the town both a hilltop and maritime character.
Its identity is closely tied to Erice, of which it remained a part until the mid-20th century. The area was inhabited from prehistoric times, with caves preserving early human traces, while the first settled nucleus is associated with Norman initiatives in the Trapani hinterland. In 1241, Frederick II granted thirteen uninhabited casalia to the University of Monte San Giuliano, today’s Erice, as part of the repopulation of the inland territory.
Today, Custonaci is defined by a distinctive blend of Marian devotion, archaeological memory, rural traditions and stone-working culture. Known as the “Riviera dei marmi”, it has extracted marble since the 16th century and built a local identity around a material exported far beyond Sicily.
Patron Saint:
Maria SS. di Custonaci – last Wednesday in August
Nearest Airport:
Trapani (Birgi) – (32 km, 00:44)
Neighboring Cities:
Buseto Palizzolo, Castellammare del Golfo, San Vito Lo Capo, Valderice
