Discover Tre Croci

Tre Croci offers two different ways to plan a trip: historical traces around Garibaldi and trails through the hilly landscape around Monte Tre Croci. Colle Tre Croci reaches an elevation of 523 meters and was formerly called Giubino. If you enjoy putting cultural sites and nature experiences at the heart of your trip, it is worth considering these themes separately: the history leads to Garibaldi and the Santuario di Maria SS. di Giubino, while the trails lead to viewpoints and the Angimbè Biotope.

Elevation, Name, and Garibaldi’s Trail

One specific moment in history takes us to the morning of May 16, 1860. Giuseppe Garibaldi used Tre Croci to survey the surrounding area and assess the route to Palermo. A large stone on the summit of Tre Croci commemorates the site of this observation. Local residents erected the memorial in 1909. Two historical moments therefore stand side by side: Garibaldi’s observation in 1860 and the memorial erected later. The former name Giubino adds an older name for the 523-meter-high Colle Tre Croci to this history. For your trip planning, a historical moment, a specific date, and a visible memorial are all connected.

The Sanctuary and Church History

The church’s history spans different periods. The first documentary evidence of the existence of the church of the Santuario di Maria SS. di Giubino dates to 1495. The sanctuary stands on the northern slope of Colle Tre Croci, on a plateau opposite the ruins of ancient Segesta. The original chapel on Colle Tre Croci is a separate site: it was replaced in the 18th century by a small church, the remains of which are still visible. At the beginning of July each year, the image of Maria SS. di Giubino is carried in a procession; the feast is celebrated on the following Sunday. If you are planning when to travel, this recurring celebration provides a specific cultural event in early July.

Trails and Views Around Angimbè

The rural road to the Angimbè Biotope begins at the northern bypass of Calatafimi-Segesta and follows an unpaved track halfway up the slopes of Monte Tre Croci. At kilometer 4.0, a trail branches off toward a forestry tower, which can be reached on foot or by bicycle. The starting point and junction provide two specific reference points to help you follow the route described. The expansive views include Monte Bonifato di Alcamo, the valley descending toward Gibellina and Camporeale, and the cork oak stands of Angimbè. In this way, the trail markers along the route are distinct from the landscape destinations that draw the eye toward the wider surroundings. Check local trail conditions before setting out.

The approach to a small pass between the two peaks of Monte Tre Croci and Roccazzedda is also described: a publication from 2018 mentions driving to the pass. The vehicle is parked there, and the journey continues on foot. Confirm locally that the pass is accessible before basing your plans on it. A route description published in 2018 also says that the nature trail can be completed entirely on foot or by bicycle. It describes the nature trail over the two small mountains north of Calatafimi-Segesta as short, very easy to walk, and without excessive inclines. As terrain and trail maintenance can change, check current conditions locally.

Plan Your Stay

For a history-focused trip, Garibaldi’s observation, the memorial, and the church’s history take center stage. Those planning to explore the terrain will find specific route information, a junction to the forestry tower, and named viewpoints. These differences can help you organize your days around your interests.

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For the overarching travel guide: Trapani.