| Historical crossroad for maritime trade in the Mediterranean, Sicily maintains a large artistic and cultural patrimony, with contributions by foreign dominators over the centuries. The region is also rich in natural beauties, from the beaches of Taormina to the Gulf of Castellammare near Etna, a still-active volcano.
Sicilia is an island of beautiful beaches, enticing cuisine and, more formidably, the Mafia. The largest Mediterranean island, it is separated from mainland Italy by the Straits of Messina. This position has led to a number of peoples invading the island over the centuries, resulting in a blend of cultures – the people speak local dialects which have traces of Arabic, Greek and other languages. It is a land of fertile soil and the economy is based largely in agriculture together with fishing and mining.
A temperate climate is experienced with mild winters but very hot summers – temperatures can soar to 35-40°C (95-104°F). So be prepared with your sun hat and protective lotion if you plan to brave the summer.
Situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Sicilia’s capital, Palermo, is a beautiful, lively city with some splendid architecture. Telltale signs of the foreign empires and traders that contributed to its growth are dotted across the city. It boasts fine examples of Arabic, Baroque and Norman architecture amongst a number of other attractions.
When people outside Sicily think of Sicilian culture, it's folk culture that often comes to mind, an image colored by what they've seen in films or television. But that's just one small part of a complex society whose polyglot culture transcends any simple description. More than any other Italian region, Sicily is almost a nation unto itself. The real Sicily is theatre, cinema, opera, high fashion, art, design, sports and much more.
Welcome to the best guide to shopping for the best Sicilian products and services offered on the best web sites. Everything from ceramic art to olive oil, from silverware to wines.
Cesare Di Maria: Designers of original bridal dresses. Palermo.
Cucina Papoff Restaurant: Traditional Sicilian cuisine. Palermo.
Esmeralda: Embroidered linens and lace handmade in the traditional Sicilian country style.
Kalta Sicilian Ceramic Art: One of Sicily's best makers of traditional ceramicware --vases, tableware, pottery and decorative pieces. Represented in the United States and Canada.
Planeta Winery: One of Sicily's best winemakers, located near the southwestern town of Sambuca. |
