Prehistoric Museum, Paceco

The Museum is located in the Torre di Ligny, built in 1671 by order of the viceroy Don Claudio La Moraldo, Prince of Ligny. Here prehistoric and protohistoric artifacts are exhibited. It is divided into two sections:

– the prehistoric section on the ground floor features artifacts found in the province of Trapani

– the marine archaeological section on the first floor, where over 100 objects from the Mediterranean seabed are displayed: amphorae, anchors, household items from Greek, Roman, and Punic times.

One of the most important archaeological finds is a bronze helmet recovered from the seabed near Trapani. The exhibited helmet is of the cap-type with a tubular apex and features a small visor extending from the cap, similar to helmets currently issued to armed forces. On the sides, there are two slits, one on each side, with the left slit being very narrow and the right one round and wide, suggesting a blow received by its owner. Inside, at the lower part on both sides, there are two plates presumably used to attach the cheek guards. The helmet measures 24 cm in height, has a circumference of 70 cm, and an internal diameter of 22 cm lengthwise and 20 cm widthwise. The tubular apex has an internal hole 2 cm in diameter and features external double arch engravings. Before restoration, almost half of its surface was covered by encrustations of rock-dwelling animals. The helmet is dated to the 4th – 3rd century BC.

 

It is possible to access the tower terrace, from which you can enjoy the splendid panorama stretching from Capo San Vito to Marsala and Mozia, including the city of Trapani, Mount Erice, and the Egadi Islands.