Sicily, the largest and most important of the Mediterranean islands (25,708km2), owed its ancient name Trinacria to its triangular shape. The modern name Sicilia is derived from that of its ancient inhabitants, the Sicels or Siculi. Physically it is a continuation of the chain of the Apennines on the one hand, and of the Atlas mountains on the other. But it appears that far from Sicily being joined at a comparatively recent epoch to Calabria, the Strait of Messina is actually narrower now than in former ages. The island is mountainous across the north and easth, with plateaux in the centre, lowering towards the south, and fertile coastal plains. Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, dominates the easth and much of the centre of Sicily. The island is notorious for its earthquakes. Fumarole, macalube, or diminutive mudvolcanoes, and thermal springs are of frequent occurrence. Within Sicilian waters are included many lesser islands: the Aeolian or Lipari Islands to the north; Ustica to the north-west; the Egadi to the west; and Pantelleria and the distant Pelagian Isles to the south west. Of the meagre rivers the largest are the Simeto, Salso, Belice, and Platari; most of the smaller streams are dry in summer.Sicily numbers 4,680,700 inhabitants. Palermo, the capital, is the principal town; Syracuse, Agrigento, Messina, Catania, Caltanissetta, Trapani, Enna, and Ragusa are provincial capitals. The bulk of the population is devoted to agriculture. In the central uplands grain is the chief product, while the coastal regions are devoted to the culture of the vine, the olive, and fruit; the most characteristic product is the “agrumi”, i.e. oranges, lemons, tangerines, etc. Sicilian waters are rich in fish, especially in the Strait of Messina where upwards of 140 species are known, including unusual deepsea varieties. Wild flowers are particularly beautiful all over the island in spring.
 
 
Sicily villas
Luxurious six-bedroom villa with private pool in the southern area of Sicily close to Agrigento and the stunning Mediterranean coastline.... more
Luxury self catering villa in Italy
Italy, Agrigento
Ref: 73250
Sleeps: 12
From E 6,000.00 p/w
Sicily villas
Villa Setteperle is a cute small villa close to Castellammare del Golfo. It has charming pool and an elegant outspace.... more
VILLA SETTEPERLE, Sicily
Italy, Castellammare del Golfo
Ref: 69300
Sleeps: 6
From E 1,100.00 p/w
Sicily villas
Comfortable detached villa situated in a quiet and sunny location near Floridia, 15 km west of Syracuse. The location also makes it an excellent starting point ..... more
Andrew Villa - Private pool
Italy, Floridia
Ref: 69859
Sleeps: 6
From E 750.00 p/w
Latest Reviews
Italy: Villa Cecilia,scopello

"With great pleasure I would like add some our pictures of the villa!..." more
Andrey from Kiev 12/05/2012

Italy: Villa Cecilia,scopello

"If you want to feel the real spirit of Sicily life this villa is the best choice you can make ? For village vacation cozy authentique style of the villa is much better then any modern designed apartme..." more
Andrey from Kiev 12/05/2012

Italy: Villa Segreta, Etna, Sicily

"We have just return from a lovely weeks stay at Villa Segreta. The villa is located approx two Miles from Belpasso and three from Nicosia, on the main road to Mount Etna. 40 Mins from Catania Airport...." more
Lee from Enniskillen 03/05/2012