Archive for 'Sicily and Sardinia'

Erice is a historic town located on top of Mount Erice in Sicily. Primarily medieval in appearance, it, in fact, has much older origins. The ancient Greek name, Eryx, is associated with a Greek hero of the same name who was said to have been king of the town.

However, the town was actually established by the Phoenicians. It was destroyed in the First Punic War and declined in importance thereafter. After this it was ruled by the Aghlebids, Arabs, Normans until it became involved in internal struggle over lands by Italian kingdoms up to the Risorgimento.

Sicily is seen worldwide as an escapist's dream; set apart from the rest of Italy by merit of being an island, with a distinct culture, beautiful scenery and a different pace of life. For the past two years, the island has also been home to the Best Borgo, or Borgo dei Borghi D'Italia. Last year's winner, the town of Gangi, was awarded the title by “Alle Falde del Kilimangiaro”, a famous television show broadcasted by Italy’s national public broadcasting company, RAI. Over 134,000 people voted for the town of Gangi, in the Madonie Mountains, sealing its place as winner. This makes the town just one of the ninety such historic comunes to be awarded this honour, making it part of a rather exclusive club.

Montalbano Elicona is a comune in Sicily which is well known for its medieval splendour and the castle built by Emperor Frederic II that watches over its various hamlets. This year, its beauty and history have been recognised in a more official manner and the comune has been voted the Best Borgo in Italy, 2015.

Surely, this is the perfect excuse to find a luxury villa nearby in Sicily and experience it for yourself.

This prize has been awarded to the comune by “Alle Falde del Kilimangiaro”, a famous television show broadcasted by Italy’s national public broadcasting company, RAI.

If you’re spending a sunny Italian vacation on the scenic island and region of Sardinia then be sure to visit the town of Alghero in the northwest area of the island.

Alghero has been in existence since pre-historic times due to its strategic position on the coast.

The Nuraghe civilisation once lived in Alghero and the surrounding area from around 1500BC and has left numerous monuments of their presence for tourists to explore.

There are many superb sights to see in Alghero so why not start the day with a refreshing walk along the Catalan city walls which were constructed in the 16th century. Then head inwards to Alghero’s historic centre and its beautifully built cathedral.

If you’re spending a wonderful holiday in Sicily and would like to visit an interesting attraction for a day or two then why not sail southwards to the scenic Italian island of Lampedusa! It’s part of the Pelagie Islands that belong to the Sicilian province of Agrigento. Despite that the nearest land mass to Lampedusa is Tunisia at a distance of 113 kilometres, it is the territory of Italy at a distance of 176 kilometres from southern Sicily.

Stay in a gorgeous luxury villa in Sicily and visit some of its other islands such as the Aeolian Islands or some of its amazing cities like Palermo and Catania before embarking on a trip to Lamepdusa Island for the day.