Sicily, the largest of the Mediterranean islands, lies between southern Italy and North Africa. The island can be seen as a "stepping stone" between Europe and Africa. Farmstay accommodation Acireale. A beautiful, mountainous island, Sicily has been occupied by a series of migrants and invaders including Greeks, Cathaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Angevins and Spaniards. In 1861 Sicily became part of Italy when Garibaldi united the Kingdom of Italy and the island. Eighty-five years later Sicily achieved "relative independence". This means that although Sicily belongs to Italy it is responsible for much of its own local affairs. Farmstay accommodation Acireale. The island is divided into nine provinces: Agrigento, Caltanissetta, Catania, Enna, Messina, Palermo, Ragusa, Siracusa and Trapani. History of Agrigento Throughout history islands have been invaded by foreign powers. Greek temples in Capo Di Orlando However, Sicily's rugged terrain has provided its people with a degree of protection as many of its towns and villages are high in the mountains.  

Among the areas not to be missed are Agrigento (to see the Valley of the Temples); Acireale (to see puppets); Taormina (a unique beautiful town perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean); and Mt. Etna (10 902 ft/3 323 m) an active volcano on the east coast—its crater is difficult to reach so bring a guide and dress warmly. Etna photos In April 1987 two people were killed when Mt. Etna erupted. Although it can erupt at any time — most recently in January 1992 — deadly incidents aren’t common. Farmstay accommodation Acireale. There’s good winter skiing with great ocean views from the mountain; drive the 120 mi/200 km around its base to see a wide variety of scenery. Driving Holidays Campo Bello di Mazara Among the ancient Greek and Roman ruins on the island are the Taormina Greek theatre and San Domenico Monastery near Messina the Greek theater in Syracuse the 5th-century BC Temple of Concord in Agrigento and the Casale Armerina (a jewel of a Roman villa with wonderful mosaics) in the town of Piazza Armerina near Enna. Farmstay accommodation Acireale. It’s also possible to visit the Pantelleria Islands, the Pelagian Islands and the Aeolian Islands from Sicily. Farmhouse Accommodation Campo Bello di Mazara There’s enough there to keep one busy for eight days.

Farmstay accommodation Acireale