Sicily

SICILY, the Mediterranean’s largest island, traces its first civilization to the “Siculi” in 2000 BC. Since then, because of its natural beauty and strategic location, Sicily has been under constant domination attempts by Greeks, Romans, barbarians, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Germany’s Swabians, the French Angevin, the Aragones dynasties, Bourbons and a bgillion tourist. Abundant examples of their architectural and artistic influences are everywhere, within the same city and even within the same building. But despite the constant invasions, the Sicilian people remain distinctly themselves. Today, warm African winds, and an eclectic mix of spices and history make Sicily and the proud Sicilians exotic and magical. From a snow-capped burning volcano to beautiful rocky beaches, visitors soon realize — Sicily is now the captor.

Suggestion: Given the time it takes to arrive to Sicily (unless flying directly), less than 4 days would be a waste. A week will give you a taste of just a few historical sites and topographical wonders such as Taormina, the Aeolian Islands, Mount Etna, Siracusa, Piazza Armerina, Selinute and Palermo.

We strongly recommend the services (day trip excursions, drivers, hotels, flights, anything…) of our friends at the SAT agency. Dolce Vita also offers a private Taormina accommodation. Our favorite tour guide is Signor Fanara.

If coming from mainland, base yourself out of TAORMINA, the “pearl of the Ionian coast”. This cliff-top traveler’s favorite, is home to the famous 3rd century BC Greco Roman Theater, and though Syracusa’s is larger - this one has a live volcano for a backdrop. The heartbeat of town is the passeggiata-perfect, shop filled, restaurant hiding Corso Umberto. Max out the pleasure with an ocean and volcano view hotel room.

About an hour’s drive south is MOUNT ETNA, Europe’s largest active volcano. The majestic peaks can be covered in snow, yet the volcanic valleys below remain incredibly fertile for olives, grapes and citrus trees. Close to the peak, and even just around the base shopping area, the ground is black and bare, as you would imagine the surface of the moon. Peering down any of the craters is a remarkable experience.

The seven AEOILAN ISLANDS are off the northeastern tip of Sicily. The best way to admire these fascinating and still active volcanic islands is by boat. Small rocky beaches, black sand, crystal water, caves, coves, a museum and quaint boutiques.

The city of SIRACUSA is also only about 1 ½ hours south. Originally built in the 5th century BC, its large white open theater is an outstanding example of ancient Greek architecture.

The capital of Sicily is PALERMO (a 3 hour drive from Taormina) a bustling city flavored with striking Byzantine, Arab, Norman and Baroque architecture. Palermo’s extraordinary Duomo shows the presence of both a Mosque and a Christian Basilica. The name Palermo originates from the Phoenician word “panormos” meaning port, and from this port you can take a comfortable ferry back to mainland Italy, or choose to fly out of the airport.

Fifteen minutes outside of Palermo, on the western side of the island, is MONREALE, an unpretentious town with an unforgettable Basilica. Though less well known, this massive cathedral covers more area and has more individual mosaic pieces than St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice. In 1172 vast amounts of gold went into the building of this last Norman church. The result is a medieval masterpiece that evokes a sense of wonder. The small piazza and surrounding streets are delightful and usually not crowded.

The city of SIRACUSA is also only about 1 ½ hours south. Originally built in the 5th century BC, its large white open theater is an outstanding example of ancient Greek architecture.