Palermo is Sicily’s capital, a city rich in history, culture, architecture and gastronomy; an important centre throughout its 2700 years of history. Palermo lies in the northwest of Sicily, beside the Gulf of Palermo, in the Tirreno Sea.

The catacombs of the Capuchinos, with their unevenly conserved mummies, are a big tourist attraction, as is the Cathedral in Moorish/Norman style, and the Palazzo dei Normanni (with, in its interior, the beautiful Palatina Chapel); also notable are the churches of Martorana (with its splendid mosaics inside), San Cataldo, San Juan de los Eremitas, San Ignacio, San Francisco de Asís, San Giuseppe dei Teatini and Casa Professa; the Quattro Canti; the Pretoria fountain; the Politeama and the Massimo theatres; the charming beach at Mondello. Among the most important museums in Palermo rank the Archaeological Museum, the Regional Gallery of Sicily (Palazzo Abatellis), and the International Marionette Museum.

The winters are temperate and the summers very hot, while the waters are ideal for sailing.

Marsala lies in Trapani province, on the western shore of Sicily, in Italy, and in number of inhabitants, is the fifth largest Sicilian municipality. Its 250 Km² are home to a rich cultural and scenic heritage. It is a city of fishermen and wine producers, situated in the extreme west of Sicily.

Its Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Thomas of Canterbury, is its most notable monument. The archaeological remains of the thermal baths at ancient Lilibeo are worthy of note, and one must surely try the seductive gastronomy, and the renowned Marsala wines.


The city of Marsala has a typical Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and rather hot summers, especially when the Sirocco blows, taking temperatures up to possibly 40ºC, but with very low humidity. Her coastline offers good sailing, while the scenery and the crystalline water, makes for an unforgettable journey.