Sicily is quintessential Italy, where everything Italian is more intense. Whether you love or hate aspects of Italy, you’ll find them here in their purest form. Sicily, shaped by its active volcano, was once a kingdom and is now one of Italy’s poorer regions. Join us as we explore the many facets of this captivating island.
The contrasts in Sicily are striking, from its stunning beauty to the abundance of garbage. In Palermo, you can admire unique Arab-Norman buildings, Baroque palaces, and Art Nouveau architecture, all reflecting the city’s long and proud heritage. Yet, decay is visible everywhere, with collapsing houses, dirt, and trash littering the streets. Children beg at tables, and stray dogs nap in sunbeams.
Each evening, the passeggiata fills the streets with people dressed to impress, strolling down Via Marqueda, chatting, or enjoying an espresso and cannoli. However, the side alleys tell a different story, dark and sullied, with crumbling buildings held up by scaffolding. The locals seem to either not notice or not care – it’s hard to tell.
Nature in Sicily is like an aria in an opera. The Madonie Mountains, the coastal trail in Zingaro Natural Park, and the desolate landscape of Etna add to the island’s mesmerizing beauty. Even Monte Pellegrino, overlooking Palermo, is a green sanctuary, home to eagles, butterflies, and flowers.
The southeast corner of Sicily is a Baroque gem. Siracusa is a favorite, joined by the quaint white town of Noto, the hilltop town of Ragusa, and Caltagirone with its long, tile-covered staircase. These sites are recognized by UNESCO for their architectural significance.
Sicily also boasts incredible historical sites, such as the Greek ruins in Agrigento and Segesta and the stunning Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale, showcasing Mediterranean civilization’s rich three-thousand-year history.
The island’s charm extends to its people and food. Sicilians are charming, curious, and a bit crazy. The street food is delicious and affordable, the wines are ruby red, the seafood fresh, and the cannoli unforgettable.
Sicily is vibrant, chaotic, and not for everyone. Driving in Palermo for just 15 minutes can be a nerve-wracking experience, leaving you grateful to make it through. Despite its challenges, Sicily’s allure makes other places seem dull and quiet in comparison.
Skip the chaos of Palermo’s traffic and let us show you Sicily’s beauty.
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