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Sicily, Much More than Just an Italian Island

Once a Greek colony, Sicily was described by the great Roman philosopher and statesman, Cicero, as the greatest and most beautiful city of Ancient Greece. It is also known as the Italian heaven. It lies to the south of the Italian mainland and is the largest island in the Mediterranean with many smaller islands dotted around it.

Although intrinsically Italian, the multi-cultural influences in Sicily make it one of the most cosmopolitan islands there is. Its art and architecture are evidence of its rich cultural heritage. Its most famous archaeological sites include the Pantalica Necropolis and the Valley of the Temples and any Sicily Holiday Guide will map out the many places of natural beauty and historical significance which must be visited.

Its most famous natural attraction is Mount Etna, believed by the ancient Greeks to be the kingdom of Hephaestus (whom the Romans called Vulcan), son of Zeus and god of fire and volcanoes. It was also the home of the mighty one-eyed Cyclops, terrifying, man-eating monsters. Mount Etna stands at over three thousand metres – Europe's highest active volcano. Etna is now a popular nature reserve, offering skiing on its slopes in winter and nature trails through its woods, valleys and gorges during the rest of the year.

Sicily has some of the most amazing sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, all offering a wide range of water sports. Its cuisine is also unique, reflecting the many cultural influences that have shaped this remarkable island through the centuries. It is especially famed for its delicious cakes and ice creams. Sicily truly has something to delight absolutely everyone.