Sicilia

Sicily is a land unto itself, proudly different from the rest of Italy in its customs and traditions. Life is slower, tradition is respected, myths and legends of the past aren’t forgotten. Its culture is very much its own, with an Arab flavor that reminds us that Sicily broke away from the mainland of Africa, not Italy, millions of years ago. Its Greek heritage still lives, with Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples being one of the most memorable sights of the ancient world, having some of the greatest Greek ruins ever to be found.

Sicily has been inhabited since the Ice Age, and has had more than its share of natural and political disasters. Having been conquered by the Greeks, the Romans, the Vandals, the Arabs, the Normans, the Swabians, the House of Aragon and the Bourbons, you can only imagine the eclectic array of architecture found here. On top of the mass of invaders, Sicily has had to overcome a series of plagues, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and hardships. All this has resulted in a proud and colorful people that is decidedly 'Sicilian' before they are 'Italian' and a land that has deep archeological heritage every where you turn.

Baglio Lauria, Sicily

Baglio Lauria is an ancient Franciscan monastery that lies on the plateau of Campobello di Licata and dates back to the 18th century. In the 1800’s, the day after the unity of Italy, the Lauria family bought the farm and started growing almonds, olives and grapes. After beautiful restoration, Bagio lauria now serves as not only a farm, but as an incredible place to relax in the sunny Sicilian countryside, experiencing traditional cuisine and utmost relaxation. Thank you, Paulo, for some of the best wine, olive oil and Sicilian fare we’ve yet to enjoy!

Baglio Spano, Sicily

You know it’s going to be a special place when you drive through acres of vineyards along a bumpy, gravel road to get there. You know it’s going to be something incredible when you drive through wooden gates 30 feet tall dating back to the 18th century. Special and incredible barely describe Baglio Spano, an old wine cantina in western Sicily, once used as a summer home residence by the noble family Montalto-Spanò. Baglio Spano has found a perfect mix between old and new, having modern conveniences in a historical setting. As a jump-off point to Marsala and Selinunte, this is a great location to lounge on the beach or explore archeological parks and ancient cities. After experiencing Baglio Spano, I’d have to argue that eating breakfast and dinner in an orange grove makes the food taste even better, if that’s even possible!