Travel Guide to Sicilia, Italy

The island of Sicily is practically the only place in Italy that has managed to preserve and save the imprints of many ages and epochs. Many years ago Sicily attracted a large number of invaders. On the territory of the city lived the Romans, Greeks, Byzantines, Normans, and Arabs. Sometimes only one nation lived here, and sometimes different nations co-existed in this place. All these peoples have left rich heritage in the history and culture of this place. Various cultures have influenced on the formation of all aspects of the island’s life, from art and architecture to the language and cuisine.

The Greek people have left Sicily with magnificent temples and theaters, the Romans brought the amazing mosaics, the Arab added Moorish style to the island that can be seen in a variety of architectural sights. The arrival of the Normans to the island of Sicily was marked by the acquaintance with Roman architecture, the monuments of which still impress tourists with their grandeur. You should definitely visit the cathedrals in Monreale and Cefalu. The Spanish nation has introduced the island with the ornate decoration of the buildings facades, various moldings and decorative ornaments that are typical for the baroque style and that can be seen on many Sicilian palaces and churches.

The main places that are famous among tourists are museums and villas of Palermo, Taormina town well-known for its ancient Greek theater, Archaeological Park and Ortigia, Norman cathedral in Cefalu and Piazza del Duomo, Syracuse Historic Center, a magnificent cathedral in Monreale, Agrigento and Piazza Armerina, and the Aeolian Islands.