Sicily – Island with Volcano, Mountains, Beaches and More
Sicily is the independent island region of
Italy and is well-known as the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The place is known for offering a mix of cultures and abundant of tourist spots. Due to its strategically ideal location,
Sicily was popular as a trading destination in the past.
History:
Sicily was first of all explored by people from three ancient tribes, namely Sicani, Elymians and Ligures. The Phoenicians from Greek also inhabited the region around this time. A number of important Greek settlements were established in 750 BC. Apart from that, Carthaginian colonies also found space in the region during this period. With the passage of time, Romans became more powerful in the region. For more than 700 years, the island region of Sicily was ruled by the Roman Empire.
During early Middle Ages, the Roman Empire started losing its control and Vandals and Goths, the two Germanic tribes occupied most of the region. The Ostrogothics also invaded the region and ruled it until the Byzantine Empire became powerful enough to establish its influence here. By the end of the 7th century, the Arab forces weakened the control of all other rulers in the region. In the 11th century, the region came under the control of Normans and the place emerged as the Kingdom of
Sicily. After experiencing French and Spanish Control, the region was finally united with the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
Popular Places:
A number of important cities constitute the island region of Sicily. Some of these cities are:
• Agrigento, popular for Valley of Temples;
• Catania, famous as the economic hub and for Mount Etna;
• Ragusa, famous for baroque architecture;
• Piazza Armerina, famous for Roman Villa del Casale and so on.
Sicily is famous for a number of beaches including Marina di Ragusa and Giardini Naxos. The Aeolian Islands have been included in the World Heritage List for accommodating volcano sites. Madonie National Park and Gole dell'Alcantara gorge are other important tourist spots. A number of archaeological sites belonging to various cultures can also be explored in
Sicily.
Getting Around:
Trains and bus services connect all major cities and regions of the island. Car and taxi services are also convenient to move around the region. Ferry services can also be considered to enjoy trips from one part to another, a great way to
guide you round
Sicily is to get a map.
Places of Entertainment:
A number of yacht tours are organized as entertaining activities for the tourists. Walking tours can also be used to explore cultural remains of various civilizations. Fish and seafood are the famous food items served at various restaurants. Pasta is the famous Italian cuisine served at various places in
Sicily.
Accommodation Options:
Sicily hotels are available for various budget ranges from Luxury hotels to
budget hotels, you can also stay in
youth hostels,
bed and breakfast,
guesthouse, motels and private apartments.
Currency:
Euro is the currency used in
Sicily and a number of currency exchange points are available in various cities of the island, check the
news and internet for the best exchange rates.
Sicily group accommodation |
Worldwide budget hotels and hostels