A History of Italy

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:

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• Sicilian ancestry and the influence of Scottish heritage.
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• The island's multicultural past: from Carthage to Greek colonization.
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• Catania, Messina, and the legendary Mount Etna.
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• Anti-mafia heroes, and community resilience.
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• The importance of local wine and sustainable tourism with Explore Worldwide.
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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!

From the Roman fast food joints in the marvel that is Pompei, to the buzzing historical streets of Naples and the witches of Benevento, we're going off, thanks to Explore Worldwide, to explore the southern Italian Region of Campania.

What happened to the tree of the witches?

What is the "Naples Splitter"?

Where is the most iconic coast of Italy?

Can you actually move without tripping over a UNESCO world heritage site?

Which city had bad wind?

How many people can you fit on a scooter?

You'll find the answers to these questions and many more in this Episode.

Thanks as always to our partner for this series: