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Eugene Wigner Institute

Convento di San Francesco

Former Franciscan convent founded in 1364 by Count Francesco Ventimiglia and expanded over the following centuries. After briefly serving as a hospital, the historic complex was repurposed as the Eugene Wigner Institute, part of the Ettore Majorana Foundation, and now hosts scientific conferences and research activities. The atmospheric spaces are also used for art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural performances.

history

Address: Via San Francesco
Price: Included in the Erice Card
Website: museimajoranaerice.com (opens in a new tab)

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Erice, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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Church of Saint Francis of Assisi
Chiesa di San Francesco
Founded in 1364 by Count Francesco Ventimiglia in his former palace, this active church—once part of a major Franciscan complex—features a single nave and a Renaissance-style vestibule added in the early 20th century.
See
Palazzo Burgarella
Burgarella Palace
Late-19th-century palazzo of the Burgarella family, whose wealth came from the salt and tuna industries. Family patriarch Agostino Burgarella Ajola established the famous salt works of Aden and developed commercial interests extending from Sicily to North Africa and the Red Sea.
Free (Exterior visible)
Eat
Osteria di Venere
A small osteria serving seasonal Sicilian dishes. Casual but elegant atmosphere.
See
Church of Saint Julian
Chiesa di San Giuliano
It was founded by Roger I, and rebuilt in the 17th century. It is used for religious and civic gatherings.
10:00–18:00Included in the Erice Card