Trapani

Trapani occupies a narrow projection on Sicily's western coast, its harbour facing the passage between the island and North Africa. Salt pans and the coral fishery helped sustain a town well placed for routes towards Spain and the central Mediterranean. Its position made the port a meeting place for merchants, sailors and fleets.

After the Sicilian Vespers of 1282, Trapani gained a privileged place in the Aragonese kingdom. Coral fishermen worked the waters beyond the town and sold their catch at mainland fairs, including those at Lanciano and Senigallia. In August 1535 Emperor Charles V landed at Trapani after his conquest of Tunis, beginning a journey across Sicily. The busy harbour received the imperial expedition as well as the ships of commerce.