Classical Sicily

Some of the richest archaeological sites and the most impressive artistic achievements of European culture are to be found in Sicily, the largest island in a sea which was itself thought to lie at the centre of the ancient world, the Mediterranean. Controlling the trade routes between east and west and the pivot of power between the ‘superpowers’ of antiquity, Sicily was fought over and repeatedly won throughout the history of western civilisation. As part of Magna Graecia, the city of Syracuse was second only to Athens and Carthaginians wrestled with Rome for control here during the first Punic War. This tour presents an extraordinary panorama of changing identities – Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Norman.

The varied landscape reflects this tempestuous past, ranging from gently beautiful hillsides to shimmering salt plains and dramatic and rugged coastlines. On this sun-soaked island, we find wonderfully preserved Greek temples, Roman villas and Norman cathedrals filled with stunning mosaics. This tour showcases the wonderful monuments from all the cultures which found their homes on Sicily.