Discover Tripi – Archaeology, Churches and Landscapes

Tripi combines the archaeological evidence of Abakainon with highland trails, churches and sweeping views over the Tyrrhenian coast. In the hamlet of Cardusa, the Necropoli di Tripi preserves evidence of the ancient city of Abakainon. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Tripi, you will be choosing a place where history, landscapes and different kinds of excursions can be combined.

Archaeology between the Necropolis and Museum

The Necropoli di Tripi comprises around 80 generally well-preserved tombs dating from between the late 4th and early 2nd centuries BC; some of them are particularly monumental. The Museo Archeologico Santi Furnari di Tripi is an interactive archaeological museum whose exhibits all come from the Necropolis of Abakainon. The archaeological area of Abakainon is considered an archaeological park that can be visited and is accessible to interested visitors. The origins of the Castello di Tripi, on the other hand, are uncertain. A text by the geographer Idrisi dated 1154 is the only document to mention a medieval fortress at this site.

Churches, Artistic Traditions and a Lively Feast Day

The Chiesa Madre di San Vincenzo Martire di Spagna was partially rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, while its bell tower has retained its original appearance. The church houses part of the saint’s skull and an old terracotta bust of the Madonna del Capello. The Processione di San Vincenzo takes place on the first Sunday in September: the statue of the saint is carried through the streets of Tripi by bearers and accompanied by a marching band. The Chiesa della S.S. Trinità dates from the 16th and 17th centuries, while the Chiesa dell’Annunziata dates from the 17th century. The Chiesa di San Biagio has been classified as a “bene monumentale” by the competent heritage authority.

Highland Ridge and Trails with Different Focuses

At 610 m above sea level, the Castello di Tripi stands at the highest point of a ridge separating the Tallarita and Mazzarrà streams. The historic route from Tripi leads to the Castello di Tripi and offers views of the Gulf of Milazzo, Tindari and the Aeolian Islands. The archaeological trail from Campogrande leads to the Necropoli di Tripi. The naturalist route from Tripi follows the Tallarita trail to ancient rock wine presses dating from the 14th century, the Rocca Tallarita and the Grotta di San Cono, and passes through more than three kilometres of woodland. This allows you to focus on history, views or nature experiences, depending on your travel plans.

Getting There and Practical Information

The Necropoli di Tripi can be reached by car via the SS113 or the A20, taking the Falcone exit. From there, the SP102 towards Campogrande and the SP115 to Via Alcide De Gasperi lead to the site; after 1.3 km, a sign points left towards the necropolis. The Castello di Tripi can be reached via Via Pianolo; the final section, approximately 1 km long, follows an unpaved road and must be covered on foot. Opening hours for the Museo Archeologico Santi Furnari di Tripi must be obtained by telephone.

Choose a Holiday Apartment in Tripi According to Your Travel Plans

When choosing a holiday apartment or holiday home in Tripi, you can use your planned activities as a guide: the necropolis and museum are ideal for an archaeological focus, the churches and the Processione for those interested in sacred history and local traditions, while the castle and the three routes offer different landscape experiences.

More Places for Your Travel Plans

If you would like to include other places in your travel plans in addition to Tripi, you can also consider San Pier Niceto, Itala, Campogrande, Taormina, Francavilla Di Sicilia, Santa Barbara, Capo D'orlando and Mitta.

For the higher-level travel overview: Messina.