Sicily Island. Sicily

10.10.2020

If the inhabitants of the post-Soviet space ask a question: "Do you know something about Sicily?", The overwhelming majority of respondents will declare with confidence: "Of course! Sicily Island is the Mafia Motherland! " That's just this information is hardly able to display the beauty of these places and convey to nothing inclusive atmosphere to the listener.

Sicily is the largest island of Mediterranean, and at the same time the country's largest region. Its area - 25,708 km², and lives in nine local provinces more than 5 million people. And the Island of Sicily remains the only region of Italy, which has parliament. It is located in the city of Palermo.

In antiquity, the Greeks called the island of trinacria. Such a name is the island, thanks to the three capes, giving it a triangular shape. At once, three seas (Mediterranean, Ionian and Tyrrhenskoye) and three archipelago (Pelag Islands in the South, Eoli - in the north and the Egadian - in the West) surrounded Sicily.

Sicily Island. A bit of history

The first archaeological finds indicating the presence of a person on the expanses belong to the Paleolithic era. At 7 - 6 millennia BC Representatives of culture of cardiac ceramics lived here. Written Ancient Roman sources report on Sicanins (descendants of Casteltcho culture), Siculas and Elimtsi (people from Malaya Asia) who lived on the island.

In the VIII century BC. The Greeks and Carthaginians began to equip their colonies on Sicily Island. At that time, the territory was occupied by the Siculas in the East and the Phoenicians - in the West. The first after some time was assimilated, and the second in 480 BC. They were expelled from the island after the battle of Germey. In 734 BC The first Greek Colony of Naxos was founded, and in 733 BC - Corinthian Syracuse. The next few centuries passed in the tireless struggle for the island. Peloponess War 431 - 404 BC BC. I missed the Athens, who tried to conquer Sicily. Starting from the V century BC. The active struggle for the island of Vyl Carthage. But already in the first Punic war 264 - 241 BC. Romans finally expelled Carthaginian. From 241 BC Until 440 AD Sicily Island remained the Roman province.

In the IX - XII centuries, who just did not rule in Sicily! For a while, the vandals, isgotes, Byzantines, Normans and even Arabs dominated here. In the XII island, he entered the Sicilian kingdom, which in 1266 - 1268 convinced Carl Anjou. Pretty rapidly the island population rebelled: in 1282, Anzhuitsa were overthrown, and until 1302, Sicily managed the Aragonians. In the future, the island of Sicily "knew" the dukes from Savoy, kings from Austria, Neapolitan Bourbon and even the association of the country. Only in 1947, Sicily's island acquired autonomy.

Sicily Island. Resort

The weather in Sicily is due to the subtropical Mediterranean climate: summer is hot here and wet, and winter is short, but windy and rainy. Oh, in any other region of Italy, the difference between the temperatures between the coastal regions and the central more dry part of the island is felt. The hottest months is July, August (the temperature reaches 26 - 27 degrees), the coldest - January, February (mercury column on the thermometer almost does not fall below 10 degrees). Sometimes Sirocco, the wind of burning Africa, and increases the temperature to 30 degrees, but the heat is not felt so much. The water temperature in the seas in winter is about 16 degrees, and in the summer - 26 degrees. The tourist season lasts more than six months, officially starts in May and ends in October. But in April and November in Sicily or more warm, but there are no visits of tourists.

Sicily Island. Transport

Going on vacation to Sicily, it is worth thinking about the way of moving before and through the territory of the island itself. You can get to the so-welcome "Mafiosi Island" by plane, bus, train and ferry. The most obvious type of transport is not always convenient. Direct flights to Sicily - are quite rare for our airports. You can fly to Rome, Milan or Venice, and already there will have to transfer to the domestic flight, next to Palermo or skating. We recommend using convenient search for tickets.

Continental Italy can be proud of the railway network crossing the country. Therefore, quite natural will be the desire to get to Sicily by train. Moreover, there are very convenient night flights, all the time of the path of which (including ferry freeways) passes in a dream. The cost of the crossing is included in the ticket price that can be bought at the box office before serving the train. It is even better not to forget to use the composters, otherwise the purchased ticket will be invalid. These yellow automata are straight on the platforms.

With all the convenience of trains, it is better to move through the island with the help of motor vehicles. The fact is that the railway canvas "ishing" Sicily. And to get from one end of the island to another, only having tripped it along the coast. Buses and cars can simply cross the region. True, do not forget that, in addition to free paths, there are on Sicily and paid roads. Their main difference is the length and convenience.

And finally, ferries. Ports are available in many cities of Sicily Island. But the closer to the continental Italy is located Messina - only 5km. The town has a regular communication with the continent: ferries go every half an hour - an hour.

Sicily Island. Beach

Undoubtedly, one of the main advantages of the island are beaches of Sicily. The water of the coastal zone has dozens of shades: from turquoise to emerald and dark blue, stones, pebbles, black sand and white ride the beaches, and multicolored flocks and starfishes float around vacationers.

Almost all the well-known Sicilian beaches (Lido, Mazzaro, the lite and Isola Bella) are in the vicinity of Taormina, the resort, prestigious, fashionable and cheaper. However, in the offseason to enjoy the solar rays here not only people are rich. The coast of Taormina, mostly stony or sandy-pebble. Rolls, Mediterranean vegetation and lack of large stones create excellent conditions for recreation and enjoying nature.

Being in Sicily, it is worth visiting the beaches of Catania, famous, thanks to the Black Sand. This is a gift ethna. The coast has acquired its black color due to fragmented water and the wind of volcanic lava. Black beaches stretched 9 km from Achireale to Catania.

In the luxury bay of natural origin are the rocky coasts and golden sandy beaches of Syracuse. These places have long chosen fans of snorkeling and diving. There are mysterious caves populated by colorful inhabitants, and the underwater flora for beauty is not inferior to ground. The most famous is the beach with a very small golden sand fountain by Bianke, called, thanks to beating from under the ground, sources of fresh water.

From the city of Likate, the Rocky and Sandy Beaches of Agrigento stretched out to Skyachka, the most popular from which Torre Verdura remains, tonnara (Tonnara), Torre Macauda (Torre Macauda) and the Grande SECCA (SECCA GRANDE).

And the province of Agrigento boasts Pelagian Islands. Three islands (linosa, lamp and lampions) do not have impressive sizes, but very picturesque. Local sandy beaches are a favorite site of scuba diving lovers. Only on the beach Rebbit Rich Lampeduza has several diving centers.

The main resort of Sicily - Palermo, and the beloved beach of the local population is a 2-kilometer sandy beach of Mondello, surrounded by rocks and caves. Excellent and terrazini zone. But the mustes, the island of volcanic origin near Palermo, will appreciate the lovers of beaches, untouched by civilization.

Sights of Sicily

Given the huge sizes of the island, describe all the sights of Sicily in one article are almost unreal (in more detail about each Sicilian attractions can be found in the "" section). Each island city has a number of architectural monuments and arts, decent admiration: these are cathedrals and churches available in many settlements, archaeological museums and art galleries, antique amphitherators and protected areas, parks and botanical gardens, villas and fountains, and, of course , Etna ...

Let's try to remember the most important in different cities of Sicily

The main attraction of Agrigento is the zone of archaeological excavations outside the city called, found at the end of the XIX century a poetrans. Back in 1997, these 1300g areas were listed on UNESCO Heritage List. On the territory of the valleys are located such temples as the Temple of Asclepia, the Temple of the consent, the grave of theron, the temple of Hercules, the temple of Gera, etc. Most of the objects of the architecture of this complex are the ancient Greek temples, built in VI - V centuries BC. Almost all of them are built in an exquisite doric style (decorated with colonnades) and are striking their grandios.

The town of Catania is famous for the whole world, thanks to the highest ethna volcano itself, whose surroundings are declared by the National Park. Specify the exact height of this Italian mountain is not possible, because after each eruption of lava, the numbers change. The last time "woke up" in January 2014, which was even closed airport in Catania. Frequent devastating eruptions of lava in antiquity were explained by the Romans by the struggle of giant giants among themselves, which caused the "reverent horror" from ordinary mortals. Today, a constantly changing relief of Etna is of interest not only from geologists, but also from ordinary tourists.

Another business card is a vaccarini. The center of the fountain is the Black Basalt Statue of the Elephant, who holds the Egyptian obelisk topped with a cross on his back. Pretty romantic legend tells about the appearance of a statue in Catania. They say that an elephant brought in the town of Lava eveset ethna. True, the official documents refute this version, arguing that already in 1239 the elephant, which is the emblem of Catania, was inside the walls of the city.

There is something to see and in Messina. In the place of the more ancient temple, in the XII century, the very peculiar church of St. Catalani was erected in the XII century. Well, lovers of sculptures and art will definitely appreciate Orion fountains and Neptune of the student of Michelangelo Montorrusoli.

One of the most famous monuments of the architecture of Palermo is located on the Freedom Square. On this hill was the Phoenic Fortress, and the Roman, and the Palace of Emir. The latter were Normans, which turned the construction of the real masterpiece of Moorish architecture in the XI - XII centuries and the residence of the king.

Another attraction of Palermo is a large opera house, built in 1891 on the project Giovanni Basile. This neoclassicistic building area of \u200b\u200b7730 square meters is the third largest European theater after Vienna and Paris.

The main monument of the history of Taormina is Antique Theater., valuable not only from the point of view of architecture, but also as a place, from the top sites of which the "panorama of perfection" opens. Established in III - II centuries BC. The theater had a diameter of 109 meters. Three centuries, the Antique Theater was converted to the Romans, adapting it to the battle of gladiators. And gorgeous acoustics and today allows you to carry out music shows in the tourist season.

The symbol of Trapani is undoubtedly windmills, with which they pumped out water and grind the salt. It is not surprising that it is in this town of Sicily, a salt museum is located, in which you can familiarize yourself with the process of salt mining in the past. And very close to the "descendants" of windmills - modern saltaries.

Sicily Island. Kitchen

If you want to make not only an intelligent journey to Italy with the "race" to the beach, the resting place is also worth choosing Sicily. Sicily Island allows gourmets to make a real culinary voyage. Unlike the culinary traditions of continental Italy, Sicilian cuisine is very diverse. The reason for this is simple - numerous shifts of the "hosts" of the island in antiquity and the Middle Ages led to the mixture of cultures even in the kitchen. So, Arabs (at one time) planted Sicily with citrus trees and introduced the islanders with eggplants. And they began to grow melons, almonds, sugar cane, grenades, palm trees, cinnamon and saffron. The Romans were planted here wheat and taught Sicilians to some bread baking recipes. Thanks to the Greeks, the culinary traditions of Sicily was replenished with wine, olives and cheese. And the Spaniards brought potatoes, tomatoes and chocolate from the new light.

Even pasta on Sicily special. Here you can enjoy regional variations on the theme of Macaron: pasta with ricotta and eggplants, pasta with marine hedgehogs, pasta with sardines and fennel or pasta with salt sprouts. Kitchen Island Sicily is replete with fish and seafood. Silver sea bass, red chefal, sardines, red tuna, squid, lobsters, mussels and royal shrimps will not leave indifferent. But the most important delicacy in Sicily remains a sword, having tens of cooking options. By the way, having received a portion of seafood in shells and shells, do not hurry to blame chefs in Leny. Such feed is the best evidence of freshness of dishes.

In addition to our usual beef and pork, Sicilian chefs are perfectly prepared by horseback. True, taste such dishes is not everywhere, but only in those institutions, on the sign of which there is a horse's head.

Vegetarians will feel at Sicily as if in Paradise, because there are a huge amount of fruit and vegetables grow here. Raw them practically do not eat, unless - in salads. Even greens on the island are drunk and eating, arrested by olive oil.

And the island of Sicily - Paradise for sweet tooths. Cakes, cakes, crispy tubes with cream stuffing, granites (fruit ice) and ice cream will help to arrange a real "belly holiday" with resting.

So, it is worth going to Sicily. And not only in order to take a look at the "mafia disassembly" near or at least the door of the houses are extensioned bullets. To sunbathe on superbly equipped beaches, swim in the affectionate turquoise of the sea, "plunge" into the culture of these places, familiarize yourself with the history of the island, tasty to eat and just for some time forgetting homely troubles ... I just come to Sicily to relax in Sicily.

Sicily is the largest island of the Mediterranean Sea and at the same time the unmarried part of Italy. Located near the "Italian boot sock itself", he it is washed immediately by three seas - the Mediterranean, Tyrren and Ionical.

The island is known as a magnificent nature that promotes excellent holidays, so ancient monuments of history engaged in leading positions among the attractions of Italy. Only the names of the Sicilian cities are able to cause beautiful images from ancient legends in the head. It is only worth listening to these names: Messina, Agrigento.

The ancient tribes that inhabited the Millennium Island called themselves by Sichani, and the place of their stay, respectively, Sicania. Later, the name has undergone a small change, and the island began to be called Sicel (Sicily), while retaining this name to the present day.

Location and geography

The island is located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Approximately the same distance separates it from both the Suez Channel and the Gibraltar strait. From the Italian Peninsula, Sicily is separated by the messinic strait, whose width in the narrow part is approximately 3 km. And you can get to the island somewhere in 20 minutes.

The direct distance to the shore of Africa is 140 km. And the overall length of the coastline of the island (including adjacent islands) is equal to 1500 km. By and large, Sicily can be attributed to mountain countries. Her only large plain is quite large in the province of Catania. The most rocky terrain in the north, to the south he becomes sandy and hilly.

In the eastern part of the island there is the highest of the existing volcanoes of Europe - mysterious ethna. The volcano himself and the territory adjacent to it with an area of \u200b\u200b1250 square meters are under state protection as a natural reserve.

Weather on the island

The climate in Sicily is typically Mediterranean, i.e. Sladden. In summer, it can be moderately hot, and in winter, by the way, rather short, the occurrence of the minus temperature would be an abnormal phenomenon. The main mass of precipitation falls from October to March.

We recommend:

Among the Italian resorts in Sicily is the largest day of sunny days (up to 2500 solar clock per year). There are even more than any other Mediterranean resort in Europe. The optimal seawater temperature is exactly what allows a lot to extend the recreation season on the island. After all, even in winter, the water temperature does not fall below + 16 ° C, and in the summer and at all reaches + 27 ° C. Those. You can safely swim in the Sicilian resort from May to November.

Vegetation

Fruit crops predominate on the hills and small plains in the central and southern provinces. Among them are mainly citrus, such as orange, lemon and mandarin. Also numerous vineyards, olive gardens, grenades, almonds and figs.

Chestnuts, beech, Tamarisk are growing on the mountainous areas, there is cork oak. Coniferous trees on the contrary are rare enough. Most mountainous slopes are covered with lavender shrubs, rosemary, oilseed pistachio, oleander and dwarf palm trees.

Since the wild forests of the centuries were cut down, today it is possible to enjoy the corners of wildlife only in special state reserves. Such a law-protected wild forest zone are around the ethna volcano and on the coast in the provinces of Agrigento, Messina and some others.

Population, economy, administrative division

Sicily is the largest of the whole Mediterranean Sea not only in area, but also by population. The total population is approaching 5 million inhabitants, and the area is equal to 25,460 kilometers square.

Sicily is an autonomous region of Italy, with its own coat of arms, flag and parliament. Palermo is the capital of the island. The whole island is divided into nine provinces: Palermo, Caltanissetta, Catania, Messina, Agrigento, Ragusa, Anna, Syracuse,.

The main source of income island is tourism and agriculture. The last time of power began to pay more attention to environmental tourism. The directions of wine and gastronomic tours are actively developing.

Island history

The history of this ancient island began in the era of Paleolith. It was then that the first buildings appeared, as evidenced by the finds during archaeological excavations in the caves Levance and Pellegrino.

The most famous archaeological monument is in the form of tomb cutting into the rock. It is called his necropolis of the pantalik and dates the 13th century BC. In addition, necropolis is located on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Starting from the 8th century BC in Sicily, colonies based on Greeks and Migrants from Carthage. The most ancient of the Greek colonies were found in the eastern part of the island, right at the foot of the volcano. Later, the Greeks founded Messin and Syracuse. The remains of Greek civilization and to this day can be seen throughout the island in the form of destroyed cities, temples and just roads.

In 241 BC Sicily becomes one of the provinces of Rome, and continues to be as follows to 440 BC. The epoch of the early Middle Ages was marked for the island by the alternate opposite, then Vandals, the Byzantine Empire, then Arabs. In the 11th century, our era is the island seized Normans, and already the 12th century the authorities captured the kings of the Anzhuy dynasty. A century in Sicily has already Aragon dynasty.

Closer to our time, the reign of the island passed from Austria to Napoleon, and from him to the kings of Habsburgs. The People's uprising of 1861 led by the ledity of the island from Bourbon. This allowed Sicily to enter the Italian kingdom.

In 1947, Sicily becomes an autonomous part of Italy. From other areas, it is distinguished by the presence of its own parliament.

Holidays

Holidays on the island do not end all year. These can be fairs or carnivals, or festivals, or even religious processions. Each city has its own patron, to whom it is devoted mainly to street processions.

In the summer (August 15) in Sicily celebrate the universal Italian holiday - Ferragosto. Annual film festival and summer cinema season, theater and music are held in July in Taormina. On July 10-16, the St. Rosalia is celebrated in Palermo, and on August 13-14, the Messina is undergoing the procession from the gigantic dolls of mats and griffin (according to the legend the founders of the city).

In the fall, the whole island celebrates the feast of the harvest.

The common winter holidays are Christmas and Epifania. In February, celebrate the feast of the blooming almond in Agrigento. On February 3-5, all skating honors holy agate. On the eve of the Great Post in Achireal passes the carnival. At this time, huge carts whose height reaches 12 meters, move along the narrow streets of the ancient city. On each cart presents some picture of Sicilian life.

Sicily celebrates the Easter week in the spring. On April 25, the Holiday Ragus is celebrated in Ragus. The first Sunday of May is the day of St. Lucia, the patroness of Syracuse. The third May Sunday in Noto is a holiday of flowers. On this day, the main street of the city (length 122, 6 meters wide) is decorated with flowers. The end of May in Cefalu (Cefalu) is a holiday of fun inventors.

See Review Next to the Beach

Relaxation

Sicily's coast is just sleeping with excellent resorts. Everyone can choose something for themselves. The best beaches of the Mediterranean and local attractions are united here, which are located close enough.

For example, in the province of Agrigento, you can enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and the virgin nature of the islands of linosa, lampion and lamp. Skiaccha resort will offer you rest on thermal waters. The most popular from the islands of the province of Agrigento is customary to be lamps. On it you can just go fishing, so do diving or ride on the scooter. On the beach, Rabbit is awaiting you an unforgettable spectacle - snow-white sand and purest turquoise water. And renting a canoe, you can see the caves with large marine turtles.

Syracuses are associated with tourists with excellent nature, a variety of recreation and modern service. It is here that diving lovers seek to get. They are mounted by rocky shores with deep caves and a variety of underwater world. For those who prefer to rest over the water, Syracuse resorts are ready to offer, protected from wind, sandy beaches with beautiful views of the ancient fortress.

See the provincial life of Sicily and relax you can on the coast of Katania. Spacious beaches will provide a secluded rest and a relaxed atmosphere. If you bother to lie on the beach, it will be possible to watch fishing of local residents or visit the bird reserve.

For those who simply crave motion, it will be best to go to Palermo. The best resort of this province is Mondello. For weekends and on holidays, in addition to foreigners, the Sicilians themselves come here. After all, the best markets, restaurants and bars are here here.

The best resort of all Sicily is considered to be Taormina. This city is located not far from Messina. And here you can try everything. Both classic beach holidays and water sports, and a variety of SPA salons, as well as a large selection of sightseeing programs. Thanks to such a variety and excellent service, you can even meet even Hollywood stars.

sights

Volcano Etna

The capital of the province of the same name - Messina was founded by Greek settlers. The main attraction of the city is the ancient Cathedral of Sicily - Duma Cathedral. The structure dates back to the 12th century and is made in the Norman style. On the bell tower of the Cathedral Square you can see astronomical hours. Made in the 18th century, today they are considered the largest worldwide.

Capital province Catania was founded by the Greeks in 729 BC. In the city are ruins Roman theater. It will also be interesting to see saint Agatha Cathedral, dated 11 century, ursino castle, dated 13th, and palace Biscari.as a sicilian baroque sample.

Syracuse

Syracuse were founded by Corinthians in 734 BC. Since then, many monuments of history have been preserved in the city. This is the biggest on Sicily Greek Theater., I. Roman amphitheater., I. altar Jerona, and many others. It is also of interest to a large castle of antiquity period - Euryal, dated four hundred years BC.

No less interesting monuments of epochs, antiquities and Middle Ages are preserved in Caltanissetta and Ragusa provincial cities.

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Sicilian cuisine

Sicily is an almost ideal place of rest and for beach lovers and for fans to study the ancient monuments. But at the same time, you should not forget about one important attraction of the island - Sicilian cuisine. Many different Sicilian dishes traditionally belong to Italian. Among them, of course, pizza, pasta, as well as various fish and cheese dishes.

Like all traditions and culture in this place, she learned for himself a little bit of every people who had ever lived on these lands. From the Arabs, for example, the love of Saffran and rigs came from the Greeks - to the fresh fruit and vegetables, from the Romans to Paste. Borrowed dishes include traditional for the province, "Kusks". This dish clearly Arab roots. In the province of Ragusa, various meat dishes are more popular. The most famous is the "Falcomagro" - a roll with eggs, ham, meat and cheese, failed in wine with tomato sauce.

In some Sicilian provinces, meat dishes are even more used than in the mainland. Especially love the locals dishes from rabbit and pork. Almost everywhere enjoys the popularity of a kebab from young kids and lamb. And absolutely all meat dishes are prepared with a large number of spices.

Seafood

And yet, despite the widespread meat in cooking, Sicily is all the same island. Here, almost at each angle, you can find an institution serving fish and other seafood. Wealth and variety of fish and seafood dishes just amazing imagination. Squids and Caracatians, Cod and Mackerel, Sword Fish and Kefal, Langusti and Much. Even the traditional Sicilian pasta is served with sardines. The paste itself is made of wheat of solid varieties grown here.

As in the entire territory of Italy, local products are customary during the preparation of dishes. Such as olives and olive oil, lemons and well, a lot of spices and seasonings. By the way, Olive oil from Sicily is considered one of the best in the world.

Jelato

A separate place among culinary sizes of Sicily occupies (Gelato) and confectionery. The one who came to rest in Sicily is simply obliged to pamper himself some delicacy. Undoubtedly, the king of Sicilian desserts is ice cream. It is this culinary landmark that is especially loved by tourists from around the world.

Hundreds of varieties of delicious cold delicacy. Clean creamy taste or with a variety of additives, sweet sherbet with chocolate or slices of fresh fruit. Or maybe you love to be built with a croissant. So that you choose, in any case, an incompetent pleasure is guaranteed. It is worth paying attention to fruit ice cream with the addition of almonds, jasmine, pistachios, watermelon or cinnamon.

Wines

Sicily leads in Italy for the production of wines. The tasting of this national product will also leave you the most pleasant impressions.

Be sure to try the famous Sicilian Marsala (Marsala) - this is a tart red wine to the taste resembles Portver. However, used as an aperitif and additives when preparing confectionery products. Other varieties of Sicilian wines are not less known worldwide. Among them, Cherasolo di Vittoria Docg (CERRASOLO DI Vittoria DOCG), Moskato (Moscato IGP), Nero D'Avola (Nero d'Avola) and Alcamo Doc.

By the way, Sicily is on the list of the 10 most beautiful places of the world, recommended for mandatory visitors to tourists. And if you still have not visited this hospitable island, then you must make this journey to your immediate plans.

Before your trip, you will come in handy in the western part of the island.

Area:25 708 km² Population:5 037 799 (December 31, 2008) people Density:198 people / km² Provinces:Agrigento, Caltanissetta, Catania, Anna, Messina, Palermo, Ragusa, Syracuse, Trapani Communes:390 Chapter:Raffaele Lombardo from April 14, 2008 Official site

Currently, Sicily is an autonomous region of Italy.

Geography

File: sicily-eo.jpg

Photo of Sicily from Cosmos

Sicily is the largest area among the regions of Italy.

On the island there is an acting volcano Etna (ITAL. ETNA or Mongibello. ) About 3320 meters high. It is the highest and most active European volcano. Its height cannot be indicated exactly, since it is constantly changing as a result of eruptions and emissions of slags. On Etna Square takes 1250 square kilometers. There are also several inactive volcanoes on the island.

Sicily's coastline, which has predominantly rocky character in the north and sandy - in the south has a length of about 1000 km. For the local landscape, large height differences are typical, because mountainous and hilly relief prevails on Sicily, and only in the area of \u200b\u200bthe city of Catania there is the only plain on the island.

File: Sicily Map RU.gif

Map of the island

The central part of Sicily is characterized by a hilly relief. We are talking about the so-called sulfur elevation, the height of which is mostly fluctuated between 500 and 700 m.

Climate

History

Prehistoric period

The first traces of a person on the territory of Sicily belong to the era of Paleolithic.

In the Epoch of the Early Neolithic (7-6 thousand BC. E.) The territory of Sicily was settled by carriers of culture of cardiac ceramics. Up to the early Penal period, the development of Sicily occurred synchronously with neighboring Malta, they present all the same archaeological cultures with the same features (see Prehistoric Malta), with the exception that Megalithic Temples were not built on Sicily (that is, in relation to Malta, she could Having a subordinate position).

The inhabitants of the most famous from writing sources. Sicily, according to ancient Roman sources - Sicani (descendants of the autochthonic archaeological culture of Castelluccio), as well as the Sicula and Elimans (aliens from Asia Minor from among the "peoples of the sea"). Archaeological monument to Sicily Dorim period (13 - 7 centuries BC) - Pantalic necropolis from more than 5,000 tomb, cut down in rocks - is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Antiquity

Sicily was colonized by settlers from Carthagene and Greeks, starting from the 8th century to n. e.

File: Sicily Selinunte Temple E (Hera) .jpg

The Greek temple on Sicily dedicated to the heer was built in the 5th century BC. e.

The ancient Greek colony in Sicily is considered to be Naxos, founded in 734 BC. e. On the east coast near Mount Etna. He was founded from Halkida on Evbee and from the island of Naxos in the Aegean Sea. A year later (about 735 BC) somewhat south of Corinthians founded Syracuse (Greek. Συράκοσαι, Συράκουσαι, Συρήκουσαι lat. Syracusae.) - The most significant Greek colony in Sicily. About 730-720. BC e. The immigrants of other Khalkid cities began to colonize the Messinsky Strait founded by Zanklu, later called Messina.

During the Peloponnesian War 431-404 BC. e. Athens tried to grab about. Sicily, but failed. From 5 c. BC e. Carthage sought to master about. Sicily. Special acute struggle against the Carthaginian expansion reached the Tirana Syracuse of Dioniria I and Agafokle. Finally, the Carthaginians were ousted with the island of the Romans during the 1st Punic War 264-241 BC. e. In 241 BC e. about. Sicily became the first Roman province, a girth of Rome. In 241 BC e. - G. N. e. Sicily - Roman province (see Sicily (Roman province)). Area of \u200b\u200bsignificant slave latifunds about. Sicily - the focus of the largest risks of slaves.

Middle Ages

In the era of the early Middle Ages, Sicily was in the hands of Vandals (5th century), sharp (6th century), Byzantium (from 535), Arabs - from 888 years. In 948, a semi-dependent emirate was formed in Sicily; at 11 c. Sicily won Normans. All conquests (except for Byzantine) contributed to the increasing and collapse of the slaveholding and strengthening of feudal relations. Thanks to the favorable geographical position about. Sicily during crusades was experiencing an economic rise.

Industry

In 1950-70s. There were considerable centerpieces of industry. In 1973, 30.6% of the economically active population was employed in the industry (and about 1/3 of them - artisans), in agriculture - 27.2%. Traditional industries - mining of sulfur, construction stone, sea salt, food (processing of citrus, tomatoes, olives, winemaking), woodworking, sewing, shipbuilding (Palermo, Messina). Among the new and the latest industries - the production of potash salts, oil, natural gas; Oil refining (Augusta, Priolo, Ragusa, Jelaz, Milazzo), chemical (largest centers - Priolo and Jel), cement, electrical and radio electronic industry. Electricity production is mainly on TPP, over 10 billion kWh.

The largest refinery (20 million tons per year of crude oil) is built on Sicily Island, in Milazzo.

Main Transport Knot Sicily - Palermo, Port (freight turnover 2.2 million tons in 1972), airway node of communication, iron and highways. Other ports: Augusta (36.3 million tons), Jel (7.7 million tons), Milazzo (15.4 million tons); Most of the cargo turnover - oil and petroleum products. Through the Messinsky Strait, Sicily is connected to the Apennine Peninsula of Ferry Messina - Reggio di Calabria.

Agriculture

Water supply instability does not prevent agriculture to be one of the most important economic resources of the region. Very important is the production of cereals, among which wheat, one of the most valuable species solid grain, essential in the process of producing the best varieties of pasta. It attached great importance to the island in the time of Romans (called the island roman resident). Olives are grown in large quantities, which ensures oil production.

One typical fruit is a persimmon. The persimmon is famous for Mizilmer's commune, where in November there is a holiday in honor of this fruit. Also important for the island is the cultivation of fruits, who were considered exotic - Kiwi, mango. In addition, the climate of Sicily allows you to grow and bananas.

The sector of the cultivation of rare colors is developed - such as orchids, which is also suitable for the climate of the island. Today, Sicily's flowers acquire all Europe.

In Sicily, about 650 thousand hectares are assigned to the sowing agriculture.

Fisheries

Fishing is a precious resource of Sicily. On the island, many large fishing ports. The basis of the fishing industry is sardines, anchovies, tuna, mackerel, and more precisely - a typical blue fish of the Mediterranean Sea, which allows you to supply the canned food with the necessary material for the production of fish in canned food, as well as smoked fish.

Also practiced breeding

And located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Such a location of the island could not do not affect the course stories of Sicily. Throughout its existence, Sicily was the most important island of Europe, which
tried to conquer and conquer numerous conquerors.

First settlements in Sicily

The history of Sicily begins with the appearance of the first tribes on the island. First traces of man On the island dating about 12,000 year
BC, and the first tribes that chose this island,
There were - Sicans, Ehlima and Sicula. Then the Phoenicians came to the island,
Founding the first real cities in Sicily. And Following
The Phoenicians on the island appeared the Greeks that founded the first
Greek colony near the modern city.

Sicily was famous for its rich soils that became the basis
Well-being for those who tried to colonize the island. SO
Week Greek cities in Sicily in their wealth and level
Economic Development began to compete with the cities of the mainland
Greece. Among these cities it is especially worth highlighting the city of Syracuse.

At the same time, the Phoenicians did not go anywhere from the island. Up to arrival
On Sicily, the Romans between the Phoenicians and the Greeks were a bloody and
fierce wars. A little famous fact, but in 480 BC,
When the Persians attacked mainland Greece, at the same time, Carthagen attacked Persians to Sicily, which, however, was defeated in that war.

History of Sicily in the Epoch of the Roman Empire

Participated Greek cities on and in Peloponnescent War.
In 415 BC, the largest of Sicily approached the shores of Sicily
The fleet, which then knew the then world. This fleet was equipped with Athens
In order to capture the city of Syracuse. However, to the rescue
Syracuse came Sparta, and the Athenians were defeated. Many of
They finished their life with slaves on the Sicilian quarries. After
This defeat of Athens could not recover, and from now on the decline began
cities.

During punic Wars Sicily became the location of hot battles between
Romans and Carthage. At that time, many Greek cities
(Selinut, Agrigento, Gela) were destroyed by the carfagen army. AND
yet the top in that war was obsessed with Romans, and Sicily in the 3rd century to
AD I became one of the most important provinces of the Eternal City.

Over the centuries, Sicily remained a ram basket of Roman
Empire. Grain has become the main subject of export. On Sicily
The many rich Roman villas have been preserved, which
indicate that Roman know loved to relax on this
Island.

Became Sicily and the place of fighting during the Civil War in Roman
Republic. After the death of Julia Caesar in 44 to our era island
Was captured by the son of Pompey - Pompey Jr.. Pompey, capturing
The island, I decided to block the delivery of grain in Rome. However, in general, it
did not change the course of war and eight years later Pompey was divided into
The battle of the army of Octaviana.

After falling the Roman Empire in the 5th century, Sicily for a while
It turned out to be in the hands of the tribe of vandals. Then the island became part of
Italian kingdom of sharp. Behind them in 535 came
Byzantine. After the Byzantines, Sicily won the Arabs who
We invaded the island in 827.

It should be noted that the presence on the island of Arabs has benefited
Sicily. The island produced a complete reform of rural
farms created a wonderful irrigation system, introduced new
Tax collection system. Capital of Sicily Palermo became one of the most
rich cities of the Arab world.

By the beginning of the 11th century, the expansion of Normans to the countries of South began
Europe. Naturally, Normans paid their attention to
Sicily. The Norman conquest of the island lasted several
decades and in 1071 after a long siege of Norman
Took the city of Palermo.

Sicily on the map.

The history of Sicily is full of bright events and unexpected turns. The island was inhabited from time immemorial, in the VIII century BC. Here they founded their colonies Finiquities and the ancient Greeks. Several centuries in the Sicilian lands unfolded bloody wars. Then Sicily was part of the Roman Empire, and after its fall in the V century, it was consistently conquered by Vandals, Westges, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans, the latter founded the Sicilian kingdom, which existed from 1130 to the XIII century. Then the Angetes came to power, and after - the Aragonians and Sicily became part of the Spanish kingdom. For some time, the island was under the control of the Savoy Dynasty and Austria, and at the end of the XVIII century, the power of Bourbon was established, which united the Sicilian kingdom with Neapolitan and in 1816 the Kingdom of two Sicily was formed.
In 1860, Sicily became part of the United Isalya. This has become a rather difficult historical moment, which is still actively discussed. The official story teaches everything from a positive side, but in fact, everyone knows about the "backward" Italian south and a more developed north. Before the unification of Italy, everything was exactly the opposite.
By 1856, the Kingdom of two Sicily took third place in the world in the world's development, his fleet was the fourth in the world in terms of numbers.
What else could the south of the peninsula boast before the unification of Italy? The first metallurgical production was founded here, the first interheatlantic liner was built on Sicily.
After the unification of Italy, Sicily's economy went to the decline, since the policy of a newly baked country was aimed at the development of the North.
The winners write history, let it remain on their conscience, and for tourists, Sicily represents a unique mixture, in which every ruler made his artistic, artistic and gastronomic lept. What can be amazing and more attractive than to travel, plunging in the century, traditions, legends and myths!

Most of Sicily occupy the hills, the mountains make up 25% of the total area, the equilnia accounts for 14%.
On the territory of Sicily there are several volcanoes, the most famous of them - Etna, Stromboli, Volcano.
Because of the triangular shape in antiquity, Sicily called trinacria.