Page 523 - The Rough Guide of Sicily

the north. The road is still there, although these days it’s submerged under the water.

Tophet burial ground

Left along the shore from the north gate is the Tophet burial ground. Most of the
information about day-to-day life in Motya has come from here, the sanctuary
revealing a number of urns containing the ashes of animals sacrificed to the Phoenician
gods (chiefly Baal Hammon) and of children, probably stillborn or who died of
natural causes. A remarkable series of inscribed votive stele from the Tophet is on

display in the museum.

Cappiddazzu

Just inland of the north gate, the Cappiddazzu site shows the foundations of a large
building, probably a temple, while between gate and Cappiddazzu is a Punic
industrial zone that was dedicated to the production of pottery and ceramics. This
was where the famous marble sculpture was found, probably hidden by the city’s

inhabitants as the Greeks stormed the island.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: MOZIA

By bus From Marsala, take the local Linea D bus from Piazza del Popolo to the Mozia

ferry landing. Return buses are on a similar schedule; a reduced service in either
direction operates on a Sunday. From Trapani, you’ll have to take the bus or the train
to Marsala and connect from there.

By ferry Ferries out to the island are run by Arini & Pugliese ( 347 779 0218) and
Mozia Line ( 329 476 0294) from two separate spots. Arini & Pugliese boats leave
from the ferry landing near the bus stop, Mozia Line from a dock about 1km away. A

steady flow of visitors ensures that there’s usually a ferry waiting during the hours
when the museum is open; tickets for the 10mn crossing cost €5 return. Parking is
available near the two embarkation points.

ACCOMMODATION AND EATING

Baglio Vajarassa Contrada Spagnola 176 0923 968 628, bagliovajarassa.com.
This peaceful agriturismo lies a couple of kilometres south of the Arini & Pugliese
ferry landing, and has rooms furnished with antiques, and typical local dishes for
dinner around a communal table. Half board only. €60

Mamma Caura Mozia Lines Ferry Landing 0923 966 036. You can eat well here –
try the fish couscous – but try to arrive early enough to watch the sun setting over the
sea (they serve wine and nibbles as well). There are also canoes to rent. Daily dinner

only.