Situated about 750m above sea level in the northwestern part of Sicily, Erice is one of the most charming of Sicilian towns. Characterized by narrow, medieval streets flanked by churches and palaces, Erice is simply a delight to stroll through. Its main church is known as the "Chiesa Matrice" ("Mother church") and was built at the beginning of the 14^th century. The Norman castle in Erice is known as the "Castello di Venere" ("Castel of Venus") offers breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian coast.