Strategically located
between Italy and North Africa
and with fertile soil and rich coastal fishing grounds, Sicily
has suffered an almost continuous round of invasion for as long
as history has been recorded. The Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans,
Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Angevins, Aragonese, Bourbons and, most
recently, the Germans (and the Allies) during World War II, all
have left their mark on this unique island, the most populous in
the Mediterranean.
The economy is based on the production of citrus fruit, almonds,
olives, vegetables, wine (including Marsala), wheat and beans, together
with mining, fishing (anchovies, swordfish tuna, and cuttlefish)
and the raising of sheep and goats.
Palermo
The capital, Palermo, is a splendid city in a grand
style, vital, opulent and full of remarkable architecture, particularly
Norman and Baroque. Notable buildings
include the Cathedral, the Martorana, the Palazzo dei Normanni,
San Cataldo, San Giuseppe dei Teatini and Santa Maria di Gesù
churches. The catacombs at the Capuchin Monastery contain
thousands of mummified bodies.
The
East Coast
Catania is a spacious
city dating mostly from the 18th century, having been rebuilt following
a succession of earthquakes. Europe’s largest and most active
volcano is Mount Etna, which stands nearby and
with its fine beaches the city attracts many tourists. Taormina
is further up the coast, is a picturesque and immensely
popular resort town. Perched on a cliff within sight of Mount
Etna, it has fine beaches, a well-preserved Greek Theatre,
a Castle and a Cathedral, as well as a plethora of chic bars and
restaurants.
Historic Sites
Sicily is littered with the remains of successive invading cultures
and a full listing of important sites. The most important ancient
Greek sites are, the temples of the Valle dei Templi at
Agrigénto, said to be better preserved than any
in Greece itself, the Greek Theatre at Syracuse
(where there is also a Roman Amphitheatre), and the vast Temple
of Apollo at Selinunte. Other monuments include the Norman
Cathedral at Monreale, containing 1.5 acres of dazzling
mosaics, and the Byzantine cliff dwellings at Cava d’Ispica
near Modica.
Aeolian
Islands
This group of attractive and small islands is popular for its crystal
clear waters ideal for diving and underwater fishing, and stunning
beaches of hot black sand and rocky outcrops. Lipari
is the largest and most touristy island. Panarea
is smart but unspoilt. Vulcano, the closest island,
and Stromboli, the most distant, are both active
volcanoes. Accommodation is generally simple, although there are
some lovely hotels. |
