Sicily 2016

The most exciting moments of world travel are the unexpected.  Sitting below Mount Etna as its active crater is spewing ash is as exciting as it gets.

To view Mount Etna we travelled to Sicily by catamaran a Venturi ferry from Malta. The visit was planned for the 20 May but high winds halted the journey to the largest of the Mediterranean islands.  On the 21st May the activity of the crater halted tours.

Syracuse epitomises Greek culture being the hometown of Archimedus.

Mount Etna is said to be the most active in the world and it is 3,329 meters in height.  This part of the island is known for its forests and hosts wild boar and Roe deer.  On the side of Etna is the oldest chestnut tree in the world.

Sicily hosts the sub species The hooded crow the only other area this bird exists is Sardinia and Corsica.

Latterly I was to find out on the BBC Website http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe--36351921
Mount Etna erupted on the 21st May it is Europes highest active volcano.

Mount Etna dominates the Eastern coast of Sicily.

Sicily is rich in culture such as arts music cuisine and archaeology.  Such areas have been visited by British aristocracy since the mid 1800's.

Films such as Goldfinger and The Godfather were produced in this area.

It's archaeological evidence dated from 12,000 BC.  Necropolis of Pantalica, Valley of the Temples and Selinunte are ancient sites housed on the island

With the reformation of Italian provinces Sicily is autonomous and links to Monaco.

The trip today was beautiful including a visit to the village of Taormina sitting on the coast of the Ionian Sea.  It was built 206 metres above sea level with astounding panoramic views.This town had chic boutiques with designer clothes and accessories.

Beautiful gardens Parco Duca Di Cesaro, donated to the town by an English lady called Ms Trevelyan and the view of Mount Etna and Naxos bay is a philosophical experience where the  world exhibits all natural elements in one space in time.

This area has a Greek theatre built by the Greeks in 4 BC.  It's present structure was altered by the Romans and Classical plays are held there during the summer months.

Tasting local produce on the ascent Lemon Liqueur, pistachio liqueur, local sweet white wine, Miele, olives and garlic to name a few.

As we reached Mount Etna it was rumbling and spewing ash.  The panoramic views showed lava flows from 2001, 2006 and 2010.

The lower slopes are fertile growing lemons oranges and grapes.

And where better to write this blog whilst 1900 metres at crater Silvestre, La Terrazza Dell'Etna whilst drinking coffee and eating pizza.

Other information can be viewed of other trips on : http://twomeatscreates.blogspot.co.uk