Regional Italy episode 06 - Sicily

Regional Italy episode 06 - Sicily

In this episode, we dive into a personal story that kicks off with a Christmas party invitation and an unexpected wardrobe choice — a kilt. From this quirky start, we delve into the historical significance of Sicily, a land that has shaped centuries of Mediterranean history.

The episode takes us on a journey from the ancient Carthaginian and Greek settlements to the present day, with a special focus on Palermo, Catania, and Messina. We hear about the Normans, the Arabs, and the rise of the Roman Empire in Sicily. Along the way, we uncover the island's rich cultural layers, including its enduring connection to mafia resistance, the tragic story of Giuseppe Impastato, and heroes like Falcone and Borsellino who fought to bring justice to Sicily.

In the second half of the episode, we explore the stunning beauty of Sicily's landscapes from Mount Etna, its picturesque coastline, and its ancient Greek ruins.


Then of course there are the local wines, like this eof the Donna Fugata winery and the 100 passi, which embody Sicily's resilience and spirit.


Finally, we hear about Explore Worldwide’s immersive tours of the island, including family-friendly adventures and activities like zip-lining, sea kayaking, and visiting archaeological gems like Giardini Naxos and Siracusa.


Key highlights:



  • Sicilian ancestry and the influence of Scottish heritage.


  • The island's multicultural past: from Carthage to Greek colonization.


  • Catania, Messina, and the legendary Mount Etna.


  • Anti-mafia heroes, and community resilience.


  • The importance of local wine and sustainable tourism with Explore Worldwide.




If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Sicily, this episode will inspire you to explore its timeless beauty, history, and culture. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn about one of the world’s most fascinating regions — packed with legends, landscapes, and a true sense of adventure!


Takeaway: Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a wine lover, Sicily offers something for everyone. Tune in for an unforgettable journey into one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating islands!




Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore!

Avsnitt(286)

Recap 06: Episode 101 - 136

Recap 06: Episode 101 - 136

After quite a long tour (36 episodes) we take our routine look back to recap what we have been over, moving around Italy and back and forth in time

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136 - Savoy from count to duke to pope (1391 - 1451)

136 - Savoy from count to duke to pope (1391 - 1451)

We follow little count Amedeo VIII as he comes to power and manages to not only expand, consolidate and organise first his county and then duchy, but even has a go at being pope for a while!

10 Maj 202219min

Anti-mafia martyrs - Pio La Torre, the mafia fighting communist

Anti-mafia martyrs - Pio La Torre, the mafia fighting communist

We take a look at the life and struggle of Sicilian communist party leader Pio La Torre, who spent his whole life trying to oppose Cosa Nostra for the good of the opressed, even when it meant going against his own party.

3 Maj 202219min

F100: Before Evil - Interview with Brandon Gauthier on Benito Mussolini

F100: Before Evil - Interview with Brandon Gauthier on Benito Mussolini

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26 Apr 202243min

135 - Savoy - different coloured counts and a murder mystery (1255 - 1391)

135 - Savoy - different coloured counts and a murder mystery (1255 - 1391)

We continue catching up with the house of Savoy picking up in 1255 and, after some zig-zagging succession, see the "colourful" green count Amedeo VI and then try to discover what really happened to his son, Amedeo VII the Red count, as the counts slowly continue to expand their lands and influence in France and north-west Italy.

12 Apr 202220min

Announcement: 200th upload, new platform, new logo and happy birthday!

Announcement: 200th upload, new platform, new logo and happy birthday!

We have reached the 200th upload ( regular episodes plus extras) and have moved to a new platform. To celebrate this as well as my 45th birthday we are unveiling the new "A History of Italy" logo

5 Apr 20228min

134 - Piedmont and the rise of the house of Savoy

134 - Piedmont and the rise of the house of Savoy

We catch the region of piedmont up to the 13th century and then start to take a look at the rise of the house of Savoy, beginning with its founder Umberto Biancamano, he of the white hand (for some reason).

22 Mars 202219min

F100:  03b The occupation of Fiume part 02

F100: 03b The occupation of Fiume part 02

The second part of our chat on the occupation of Fiume where we look at the occupation itself and the life of D'Annunzio after the endeavor

15 Mars 202227min

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