Sicily is a land of legends: the Messina strait at the North of the island is where Ulysses had to face Scylla and Charybdis; the Jonian Sea would be where he heard the Mermaids and the coast Between Acireale and Catania is identified as the Coast of the Cyclops. The Etna vulcano was known as Hephestos' forge and the central plain of the island, around the town of Enna, was the place where Persephone went to pick flowers before Hades kidnapped her.
But Sicily has also a real story, dating back to 5000 years ago: Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans. Arabs, Normans, French, Spaniards ruled over the island until it was united to Italy by Garibaldi. All these people left their traces and influenced the traditions.
Fortunately, nowadays there are no more invasions, except that there are lots of tourists coming from everywhere to enjoy the sun, the beautiful landscapes, the good food and the good wine.
It's a pity I wasn't there on vacation, but to attend a scientific meeting... However, I could go a bit around and enjoy it.
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