Trips to Sicily | Winter.

The south of Sicily keeps a treasure: the necropolis of Pantalica, a collection of cemeteries anchored in steep vertical rocks. Between 4,000 and 5,000 graves have been counted, extending through the region near the Anapo and Calcinara rivers, 23 kilometers from the town of Syracuse. Unesco included this mysterious necropolis as part of its World Heritage Sites list  in 2005.

According to the vestiges analyzed, Pantalica flourished for about 600 years, between 1250 and 650 A.D. It seems that, subsequently, the incessant expansion of the neighboring city of Syracuse absorbed much of its development and the incessant invasions would generate population decline until its abandonment. Although its origins, development and reasons for its fall are uncertain, what we do know for sure is that the archaeological remains of Pantalica are overwhelming: numerous burial chambers carefully dug into the vertical rock. If we observe from a distance we will only see holes embedded in an extension of vertical rocks. From close up, we come to wonder about these enigmatic people who buried their ancestors with so much dignity. Each funerary hole houses between one and seven individuals of all ages, and of both sexes. Some graves show signs of having been repeatedly opened, probably due to the addition of corpses in later times. It is considered that the population of Pantalica could have been of about 1,000 members or more and the life expectancy was about 30 years, approximately.

Pantalica hosts 5 cemeteries scattered throughout the region:

<li>The<strong> Necropolis of Filiporto</strong>, with about 1,000 graves.</li>

<li>The <strong>northwest Necropolis</strong>, with some of the oldest graves, belonging to the XII and XI B.C.</li>

<li>The<strong> Cavetta Necropolis</strong>, where you will find not only graves, but also houses carved in rock.</li>

<li>The <strong>Southern Necropolis</strong>, perfect to connect with any hiking route in the area</li>

<li>The <strong>northern Necropolis</strong>, with more than 1,000 graves.</li>

At the top of the hill there’s another mystery, Anaktoron or palace. Some archaeologists date it in the Bronze Age, although haven’t quite agreed on the dates and architectural currents that could serve as a reference. Later, without a doubt, are the medieval caves also carved into the rock: the Grotta del Crocifisso, the Grotta di San Nicolicchio and the Grotta di San Micidario, with remnants of mosaics and frescoes inside.

Besides the archaeological value of the place, Pantalica is a Natural Reserve with a very important ecological value for the island of Sicily. The Anapo Valley offers several hiking trails to appreciate the local flora and fauna.

The town of Modica has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by Unesco for its beautiful Baroque architecture and for the wonderful views over the surrounding landscape. Modica is also internationally known for its chocolate. Did someone talk about chocolate? Yes, the renowned chocolate of Modica has been certificated as P.A.T. (Prodotto Agroalimentare Tradizionale), whose granulated texture, its tantalizing cinnamon or vanilla scent, and its traditional elaboration and flavor make it unique in the world. Being its main characteristic, the recipe used is the original one, which was brought from the first Spanish settlers in South American lands - from the Aztec. To the pure classic flavors, its people have added new recipes with coffee, anise, mint, ginger, almonds, pistachios, orange and chili. Undoubtedly, a very tempting proposal for the sweetest palates.

And what would be of our summers without the frozen desserts? Sicily conquers us every summer with its "Granita". The granita is an ice cream dessert not very different from the typical sorbet, but with a somewhat rougher texture. There are different flavors, but the best known version is lemon, although you will also find it with strawberry, peach, almond and blackberry. Its origins go back to the Roman Empire and later expanded with the Arabs.

Guillermo II had a vision of the Virgin Mary, who inspired him to build this unforgettable cathedral, just 8 kilometers southwest of Palermo. The Cattedrale di Monreale is considered the finest example of Norman architecture in Sicily, incorporating Byzantine and Arabic elements. It is also one of the most impressive architectural legacies of the Middle Ages in Italy.

This monument was built in a record time, it was completed in 10 years and ready by 1184, with its works of art that evoke up to 42 different biblical episodes. The architect's taste for Arab art is clear in the adjacent cloister, with Romanesque arches, finely decorated with filigree and oriental ornaments. The mosaics are present in different parts of the temple. The natural surroundings, between mountains and hills, offer a perfect spot for this unique and unforgettable cathedral.