Sicily and Its Isles

Palermo is the regional capital of Sicily with nearly a million inhabitants. The history of the city’s many rulers is on full display through the architecture of the monumental palaces, theaters and churches. Arabs, Normans and Spanish have all called the city home and left their mark on the people, their culture and food. The city is full of vibrant markets, lively eateries and bustling piazzas just waiting to be explored.

Monreale is famous for its Norman Cathedral that is covered with nearly 70,000 square feet of gold-leaf mosaics. The church was built in the 12th century by the Norman King William II. The mosaics depict stories of the Old Testament and the life stories of Saints Peter and Paul. The church is a national monument and highlight of any trip to Sicily.

Take a trip to the countryside and explore an olive grove. Try samples of olive oil while gazing out at the sprawling rows of olive trees.

The Valley of the Temples is a Greek archeological site located on the outskirts of the Sicilian city of Agrigento. The site, known as Akragas in ancient Greek, was added to the UNESCO Heritage list in 1997 because of the Ancient Greek Temples’ high quality state of preservation. The most famous of the temples is the so-called Temple of Concordia which was utilized as a church during the medieval ages. In total the site has seven temples and covers an area of over 3000 acres.

Cefalù is a small seaside resort built along the north shore of Sicily. As one approaches Cefalù they will be struck by the large rock (known as the “Rocco”) that looms over the city. The town started as a small fishing village around an excellent harbor at the base of the Rocco. Later it took on greater importance when the Norman King Roger II, built the first Norman church of Sicily in the 11th century. Today the village has maintained its historic charms and serves as a hub of activity for visiting tourists.

Discover the Isle of Salina, one of Sicily’s Aeolian Islands and a popular vacation destination for Italians. Bask in the warm glow of this region’s relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the sights and sounds of this Mediterranean paradise.

Go on a tour of a caper farm and learn about the techniques of cultivating this edible flower, accompanied by a glass of Malvasia, a locally produced dessert wine. Witness the process of preparing capers the traditional, Sicilian way and then enjoy a tasting.

Set on the top of Monte Tauro is the beautiful garden city of Taormina. The city’s mix of historic monuments trace its history from the time of the Greeks to Romans, to Arabs and beyond. The most impressive monument is the Greco-Roman theatre that overlooks the crescent-shaped port of Giardini Naxos and Mt. Etna in the distance. The town also has many lovely designer shops and a plethora of restaurants offering authentic Sicilian cuisine.

See Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano.