In 2004, we spent a few days in Genoa before taking the ferry to Palermo. We had a wonderful week in Sicily.
Genoa, the capital of the region of Liguria, is a traditional port city and the home of Christopher Columbus. The winding centre is full of magnificent Renaissance and Baroque palaces along the Via Garibaldi. The harbor area (Porto Antico) was modernized by Renzo Piano and is now a popular meeting place with museums and restaurants.
During the crossing to Palermo, we witnessed Italy's national football team being eliminated from the European Championship, which did little to improve the atmosphere on board. Palermo combines Arab-Norman, Byzantine and Baroque influences. The cathedral, the Norman Palace and several opera houses are particularly notable.
80 km further west is the small town of Cefalu, where we stayed for a week at the Kalura beach hotel. Cefalù boasts a Norman cathedral adorned with mosaics, winding streets in the old town, and a picturesque city beach. It is a good starting point for exploring Sicily.
The world's largest collection of Roman mosaics is located in the Villa Romana del Casale, centrally placed in Sicily. As well as mythological and everyday scenes, the mosaics depict the famous 'bikini girl', showcasing late antique artistry from the 4th century AD. Agrigento was formerly a Greek colony. Today, it is known for the well-preserved ancient sites in the “Valley of the Temples”, including the Doric Temple of Concordia.
At 3.300 m, Mount Etna is Europe's highest volcano. Dominating the east coast of Sicily, it boasts a spectacular landscape of lava flows, craters and fertile volcanic soil. The mineral-rich soil of Mount Etna is ideal for wine and citrus cultivation. The neighboring town of Taormina, perched on the cliffs, is a highlight not only because of its ancient theatre. The old town's alleys are full of boutiques, cafés, and villas. We have fond memories of relaxing at the end of the day with a view of Mount Etna.
