- Sicily was one of the first inhabited regions of Italy. The initiators of the economical development on the island were noted above Siculians who in the 3rd millenium b.C. introduced agriculture and breeding and artisan activities. They were succeeded by Phoenicians who founded a number of commercial centers and started intensive usage of the forests for construction needs. Between VIII and III centuries b.C. the Greeks came and founded numerous colonies, developed commerce and agriculture. Romans made Sicily a granary of the empire, building the new roads and enforcing already existing settlements and systems.
- Starting from 827 a.C. and beginning of Arabic pirates rides the period of the greatest improvements of the territory organization came.Sicily, is an island of great natural beauty. The rolling hills in the interior are awash in colorful wildflowers and there are numerous fields of fragrant orange and lemon trees. Along the shorelines, spectacular rocky cliffs meet the deep blue, tranquil waters of the Mediterranean.The people of Sicily regard themselves as significantly different from the rest of Italy, both ethnically, culturally and linguistically. Over the centuries, Sicily has been conquered and inhabited by Arabs, Greeks and Normans, among others. This has contributed to a cultural mix that makes the Sicilian people unique, and this is reflected in their dialect, cuisine, architecture, etc. There are plenty of things to see and do in Sicily. Here are some popular sights and attractions:
Mount Etna, Catania
This is without question Sicily's best known and most popular natural attraction. Mount Etna, with a height of almost 11,00 feet, is the tallest mountain and most active volcano in Europe. Mount Etna is characterized by frequent periods of intermittent activity in the summit area and major eruptions from its flanks every 2-20 years. Guided tours to the mountain are offered daily.
Aeolian Islands
The Aeolians are active volcanic islands characterized by high mountains and lush, deep valleys surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. There is some truly great scenery on these islands and they are rarely crowded. Many come to the Aeolians to view the extensive Greek ruins there, and others come to swim and dive in the sea or to tan and relax on the one of numerous small beaches. You can reach the Aeolian islands from Palermo by ferry.
Capo Market, Palermo
This large, lively, noisy, and colorful market in Palermo captures the atmosphere of a 10th century Arab market. The long rows of vendors' stalls wind their way to the old gate called Porta Carini - what was once Palermo's city wall. This is a good place to shop for Sicilian crafts - but be prepared for intense bargaining!
The Four Corners, Palermo
The historic center of Palermo called Quattro Canti is the main focal point of this city's old district and takes the form of a large octagonal square. Many of Palermo's ancient churches, structures, monuments, and other sights of historical interest are located in or near the Quattro Canti. Of particular interest is the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, a magnificent medieval church constructed in the early Romanesque Gothic style.
Getting There
By Air
Rome and Milan are the most used connection points for flying to Sicily. The flight takes about 55 minutes from Rome. During the summer there are numerous charter flights operated by the major European airlines which fly to Palermo from London, Paris, Madrid, and other departure points.
By Sea
From Naples, you can catch the ferry to Palermo (7 1/2 hours) or take the faster hydrofoil or catamaran (4 1/2 hours).\
