History and culture in Sicily

Feb 22 2017

Sicily’s top cultural events

With its broad mix of invaders and fascinating history, it is not surprising that Sicily’s cultural calendar is peppered with colourful events and celebrations. From re-enactments of Norman conquests to the decoration of streets with floral carpets, the Mediterranean’s largest island provides its visitors with plenty of spectacular events throughout the year. Palio dei Normanni at Piazza Armerina The otherwise sleepy town of Piazza Armerina springs into action between 12-14 August (weather is usually good) each year with the medieval pageant of the Palio dei Normanni. Re-enacting the key historical moment of the conquest of Sicily in 1061 by…

Feb 07 2017

Sicily’s top sagre and food festivals

Festivals are all part of the fun of a villa holiday in Sicily and regardless of where and when you visit, there is a good chance of stumbling on local celebrations. With every town claiming a patron saint, religious festivals can be very spectacular affairs involving processions, fireworks and, not surprisingly, plenty of delicious food. In addition, many of the small towns and villages hold local sagre, dedicated to celebrating their most famous agricultural produce. These are just a few to whet your appetite. Cannolo Festival in Piana degli Albanesi If you are staying in a holiday villa near…

Gen 24 2017

THREE OF SICILY’S MOST SPECTACULAR RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS

Festa di Santa Rosalia, Palermo (Sicily)

Easter is probably the most exciting time to holiday in Sicily in terms of religious festivals, but the Sicilian calendar is also punctuated by celebratory events throughout the year, held to commemorate and pay tribute to the patron saints of individual towns and villages. These three festivals will give you a taste of celebrating, Sicilian style. Festa di Sant’Agata, Catania (Italy) The Festa di Sant’Agata leads the way when it comes to religious devotion in Sicily. Attracting up to a million people over a three-day period, the first of two annual festivals takes place between 3-5 February, commemorating the…

Gen 13 2017

Carnival capers in Sicily

If you thought you had to wait till summer for a villa holiday in Sicily, think again. Carnival celebrations mean party time right across the island and although traditions vary slightly from one town to another, you’ll find a party-going atmosphere wherever you go. Unsurprisingly (this is Sicily!), traditional food has a leading role with some serious eating taking place before Lent fasting. Think macaroni, cavateddi (pasta) with meat sauce and pork rind, and chiacchere, strips of sweet pastry dough fried and sprinkled with sugar. These are some of the top carnivals in February, so snap up a holiday home…

Lug 31 2015

Discovering Southern Sicily: A Cultural Trip to Noto

Noto Sicily Guide Tourist Old Town Duomo

One of the most beautiful Baroque towns in Sicily is located near Syracuse in the southeast of the island. Noto was completely raised by an earthquake in 1693 and then rebuilt near the old location. It was rebuilt by brilliant architects looking to impose their Baroque ideals. This incredible town is the perfect place to see a masterpiece with the backdrop of the stunning Sicilian coastline. It is truly like stepping back in time, because every building is a wonderful example of the Baroque style. Here is a guide to the magical town of Noto, Sicily. What to see One…

Lug 14 2015

School’s out … (well, nearly). Book a Sicily villa for early September.

Fill in some of the gaps in your kids’ education with a visit to Sicily where you can squeeze in a session on the Greeks, Romans and Normans, or a volcano-themed geography lesson, without so much as a mention of books or homework. Sicily’s extraordinary past and its hugely varied land and seascapes make it a fascinating island for all ages. If you have not booked anything yet, there are weeks available right up to early September at a selection of Wish Sicily villas. Escape the crowds and head for the heartland of Sicily Head inland for peace and…

Apr 03 2015

Top 10 Must-Visit Cities in Sicily

Many are the things to do and places to see in Sicily. But here is a list of the cities in Sicily that you cannot miss. Palermo Sicily’s largest city and capital is a place of many wonders. It’s phenomenal history can be observed through the architecture of basilicas, government buildings and piazzas. Full of restaurants and nightlife, Palermo will keep you busy day and night! Catania Sicily’s second largest city hosts the active volcano Mt. Etna that has influenced the history and atmosphere of this city. Hike to its top, and you will be stunned by the…

Mar 11 2015

Valley of the Temples Tourist Guide

The Valley of the Temples, Agrigento, is Sicily’s most prominent archaeological park. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and still today remains one of the main historical attractions for both tourists and locals. The site features eight Greek temples built during the 6th and 5th century BC: the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Heracles, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of Hephaestos, the Temple of Demeter, and the Temple of Asclepius. Valley of the Temples, Sicily, Short History The Valley of the Temples sits on the ancient…

Gen 20 2015

Sicily Symbol: Meaning, History and Mythology

The Sicily symbol and emblem of its flag is unique and mystifying. The head surrounded by three legs can be seen everywhere on the enchanting island, from beautiful ceramics to little souvenir trinkets. It is the certified logo of Sicily and has a rich mythical story behind how it came to be. The Meaning of the Symbol The symbol of Sicily known as the Trinacria or Triseklion is said to be derived from a myth about three nymphs. They are said to have danced all around the world gathering the best fruit, stones and soil, they then threw all of…

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