Sicily’s Ancient Wonders

Discover the Timeless Beauty of the Valley of the Temples

"Great are the works of time and man; but greater still is the spirit that preserves them"

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Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi), The Temple of Concordia, an ancient Greek Temple built in the 5th century BC, Agrigento, Sicily - Shutterstock

Today’s email

• Sicily’s Ancient Wonders

• Why is Verona Called the “City of Love”?

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• Around The Web: River of Fire on Mount Etna; A Blooming Baroque Spectacle;

  The Wine Villages of Piedmont and more

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Bogliasco is a gorgeous coastal town located in the Liguria region of northwest Italy, along the Riviera di Levante

• Food in Italy: TOP 3 Local Italian Foods

• Extra: Tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily!

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Sicily’s Ancient Wonders

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily, is one of the most impressive examples of ancient Greek architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning ruins set among almond trees in a beautiful natural landscape. Visitors can admire the Temple of Concordia, the best preserved, and the Temple of Juno, which still shows traces of fire from a Carthaginian attack in 406 BC. The Temple of Heracles, the oldest, retains eight original columns. The Temple of the Dioscuri, with its iconic four columns, has become a symbol of Agrigento. Nearby lies the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once guarded by huge Telamones statues. The Temple of Aesculapius, located outside the city walls, was a healing sanctuary. The Statue of Icarus, symbolising his tragic fall, stands in front of Concordia. The Temple of Vulcan and the pyramid-shaped Tomb of Theron also form part of the site. Chariot wheel ruts and ancient roads can still be seen. The park offers audio guides and child-friendly tours. Explore a magical blend of myth, history, and landscape in the Valley of the Temples

The Temple of Juno in the Valley of the Temple, Agrigento, southern Italy -Shutterstock

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Why is Verona Called the “City of Love”?

Verona is one of the most romantic cities in the world, a place where love stories—both real and imagined—seem to linger in the air. Known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this enchanting Italian city has become a symbol of romance, drawing couples from all over the world. But what is it that gives Verona its title as the “City of Love”? From historic landmarks and literary legends to breathtaking scenery and romantic festivals, here’s why Verona is a dream destination for lovers

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Experiences Likely To Sell Out

Top Experiences In Italy Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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Around The Web

River of Fire on Mount Etna

Sicily’s Mount Etna erupted dramatically, sending lava 3 km down its snowy slopes and prompting ash alerts that disrupted Catania airport. Infrared satellite images captured the spectacle, as hikers and skiers gathered to witness the ongoing volcanic activity

A Blooming Baroque Spectacle

Each May, Noto in southeastern Sicily bursts into colour during the Infiorata, a vibrant flower festival rooted in 17th-century Roman tradition. Since 1980, the Baroque streets have become living canvases of petal art, drawing crowds from across the globe

Realmonte’s Hidden Salt Cathedral

Deep beneath Realmonte, Sicily, lies a vast salt mine housing a breathtaking underground cathedral entirely carved from rock salt. With space for 800 and remarkable acoustics, its altars, statues, and intricate bas-reliefs are a true marvel of craftsmanship

The Ear of Dionysius

This towering limestone cave in Sicily, shaped like a human ear, is famed for its ancient spying legend. Said to amplify whispers for eavesdropping, modern tests reveal the myth likely falls flat amid muddled echoes. Still, its striking form and acoustic lore captivate visitors

Sicily’s Living Legend

Near Mount Etna stands the world’s oldest and largest known chestnut tree, estimated to be up to 4,000 years old. Named after a legend in which Queen Joanna of Aragon and 100 knights sheltered beneath its vast canopy, the tree thrives in volcanic soil despite Etna’s fiery temperament

The Wine Villages of Piedmont

Tucked away in Italy’s north-west corner, Piedmont is a region made for those who love slow travel, fine food, and world-class wine. With the Alps to the north and rolling hills to the south, it offers a landscape of rich contrasts – from snow-capped mountains to endless vineyards and hidden medieval villages.

Piedmont is best known for its bold red wines, especially Barolo and Barbaresco, made from the Nebbiolo grape. The Langhe hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are at the heart of this wine country. Here, time seems to move slower. It’s a place where you can spend your days tasting wines in centuries-old cellars, wandering cobbled streets, and sitting at long lunches that stretch into the afternoon

Castiglione Falletto - Shutterstock

🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Bogliasco is a gorgeous coastal town located in the Liguria region of northwest Italy, along the Riviera di Levante

We Love Italian Food

TOP 3 Local Italian Foods

Extra

Tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily!

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