PORTS OF CALL - Europe
Palermo (Sicily), Italy
,-Italy.aspx)
Palermo's history is marked by the multitude of conquerors and subsequent cultures that settled there. The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Romans, French Angevins, Spanish Aragonese, and even the Mafia are among those who have contributed to Palermo's collective cultural history. The resulting cultural blend emanates from Palermo's buildings, art, and people. From the Cappella Palatina with its stunning biblical mosaics and Arab-style stalactites and alveoli ceiling to the Quattro Canti, a city square in the heart of Palermo containing four seventeenth-century palaces, Palermo has played host to those seeking adventure for centuries.
Don't Miss
Just outside Palermo in the village of Corleone is the Museo Anti-Mafia. Corleone was home to the infamous Salvatore Riina, once Italy's most wanted man for the atrocious acts he commandeered as the Mafia's "boss of all bosses". In Sicily, the Mafia is known as the Cosa Nostra, which translates to "our thing" or "this thing we have". In the 60s and 70s, the Cosa Nostra's main income came from protection rackets and ensuring that public contracts were kept within the "family". The Museo Anti-Mafia's exhibits depict the Mafia's horrific deeds throughout history and helps people understand the dangers of organized crime.
Fun Things to Do
- Wander through the International Marionettes Museum to view the most complete collection of "pupi" (puppets) in the world. The collection contains about 3,000 objects including marionettes, puppets, hand puppets, scenery, and playbills.
- Explore Castello della Zisa, a spectacular castle requisitioned by Norman king William II d'Altavilla, completed in 1175. The castle's name comes from the Arabic word "el-aziz" meaning "splendid" or "the splendid one". The castle itself is an excellent example of Arabic architecture and also now houses the Museum of Islam.
Local Flavours
While in Sicily there are some traditional flavors you shouldn't miss. Pasta con le sarde is a typical Sicilian appetizer made with sardines, wild fennel, anchovies, pine nuts, and sultanas. Another common Palermo snack is Panelle - chickpea flour, parsley, salt and pepper fried in vegetable oil. For dessert, don't miss out on cassata, a sponge cake with ricotta cheese, nuts and candied fruits.
Shopping for Bargains
Although there are many markets in Palermo, La Vucciria is probably the most famous. "Vucciria" means "voices" or "hubbub", and this casbah-style marketplace is full of such commotion. You will be surrounded by the best foods Sicily has to offer, from giant octopus and swordfish steaks to wild fennel, blood oranges and long-stemmed artichokes. Visit the markets early in the morning to catch them in full swing. You'll find plenty of tasty treats to snack on. As in any busy market or shopping area, please keep a close eye on your money to ward off pickpockets.
If you're looking to bring home a piece of Palermo culture and tradition, Sicilian marionettes or "pupi" are representative of the highest-quality area craftsmanship. Check out the Cuticchio, Mancuso and Greco family workshops along Corso Vittorio Emanele. You may even be lucky enough to catch these artists in action and watch a marionette come to life.
Currency
The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Italy. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. Remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.