Sicily is an independent island situated at a prime location on the Mediterranean Sea between Europe and Africa. Lying at the toe-end of the boot-shaped country and enjoying a great Mediterranean climate, Sicily had for centuries been a target of settlers from various countries. Although, Sicily shows very little urban development and is most often referred to as the dark horse, it has some spectacular beauties that are definitely worth a visit. From architectural wonders to glorious beaches and breathtakingly beautiful landscape, the island has everything to offer the nature hungry traveler.
Since Sicily was occupied by a number of invaders that include the Romans, Greeks, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Spanish and many others, there are plenty of architectural structures from various eras that one can find here. Some of the buildings date back to the 5th and 6th centuries, such as the Agrigento or the valley of temples. The valley, which was one of the largest and a rich trading centre during the Greek rule, consists of ancient Greek temples that were excavated and preserved. The Temple of Concordia is the best maintained temple, but there are amazing ruins of other temples too that one can explore.
Segesta and Selinunte are also fabulous Greek settlements with several well-preserved temples that can be visited. The influence of the Norman conquests is clearly seen in Palermo, which offers a range of cathedrals, temples, the Archeological Museum and the historical city center apart from other attractions from the period. Erice is where you can see the Phoenician, the Arabic and the Norman influence and it still holds its medieval charm. Situated atop a hill, Erice overlooks Trapani, a major fishing port and the beautiful Egadi Islands ahead. In Erice one can explore the two grand castles dating back from medieval history.
Syracuse, one of the most famous Sicilian cities with its rich Greek history, the magnificent amphitheatres and other Greek architecture is a city that cannot be skipped by. Also made famous by the great mathematician Archimedes, the beautiful city of Syracuse is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. The Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto, Necropolis of Pantalica, Valle dei Templi of Agrigento, the Aeolian Islands and the Villa Romana del Casale of Piazza Armerina are all listed as World Heritage Sites. The province of Catania is home to Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna. Volcanoes both active and dormant are found in other areas of Sicily too.
The endless coastline and lovely beaches are full of tourists and locals during the summer months. Italians love their food and this is obvious in Sicily too, as you can indulge in some of the most sumptuous gastronomical treats here. There are so many places of interests in Sicily that a single post is not enough to round up all its attractions. Sadly, the Sicilian ‘Mafia’ is strongly active here, which has become a great hindrance to the development of the otherwise exotic island. However, to take the brighter side of things, you can have a fabulous time here and take in the splendors of the marvelous island, which forms one of the largest parts of Italy.
Photo by Alessandro Bechis provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Alessandro Bechis provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by j.a.sanlés provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Guy of Laatzen provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Guy of Laatzen provided courtesy of Panoramio.com