In addition to great historic shopping streets and cathedral tours, the group learned fascinating pieces of history, such as Sicily’s many layers of civilization — like lasagna layers! Cultures, religions, societies have collided throughout the centuries on the island, leaving traces of countless changes over time. On one side, you can see gorgeous Greek temple ruins with the glittering sea beyond, and on the other Norman artwork in sprawling, cavernous cathedrals. The past is nearly palpable on these cobbled streets, in the artwork on 2,000-year-old columns, in the faces of the perfectly carved statues, even in Sicily’s unique cuisine influenced by all these cultures.
The group had the opportunity to speak with most of their local guides and received some firsthand accounts of life in Sicily, which was invaluable to Sue Ellen: “The beauty, wonder, and history of Sicily astounds and amazes me.”
While we’re certain this land is breathtaking from any angle, a view from the blue waters beyond sends a message about once was: “I was quite impressed with the ruins on high cliffs, showing Sicily to all travelers on the seas. Centuries ago, it was such a lively, important part of the world.”
