Colours of Acireale – Sicily August 17, 2011

Sicily is the land of perfumes, flavours and colours, unique for its great cultivations, the result of favourable environmental conditions with a variety of different microclimates and altitudes. Acireale, set between the south-eastern side of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast, perfectly represents with its landscape the colours of the Mediterranean island: the dark color of the lava stone, the deep blue sea and the bright colors of citrus fruits that characterize this area, thanks to which it is called “Coast of the Lemons.” Along these cultivations, through a thick network of narrow streets surrounded by ancient lava stone walls, it is possible to walk along the coastal area of this beautiful baroque town, ranging from the ancient Greek port of Capo Mulini up to Pozzillo, known for its sparkling water source, passing through the villages of Santa Caterina, home of the modern termal baths, Santa Maria la Scala, Santa Tecla and Stazzo.
One of the most spectacular and picturesque part of the coast of Acireale is the one called “Timpa”, an escarpment raising up to reach 120 meters high, consisting of beds of lava stone overlapped in thousands of years; walkable through natural paths, in 1999 it was declared “natural reserve” for its high geological, faunal and vegetative value.
The costal area of Acireale offers many activities: in addition to the mentioned nature trails, it is a paradise for lovers of fishing, diving and for the curious snorkelers.
Finally, for fans of mythology, the history of Acireale is full of great legends: the greek myth of the two lovers “Aci and Galatea”, explaining the presence of sweet water sources in the area, and the myth of Polyphemus and its anger against Ulysses, which gives the area the name of “Coast of the Cyclops”.

Info by Angela Papale

Summer Carnival of Acireale August 9, 2011

Every year Acireale colours its summertime with the magical atmosphere of the carnival.
An event that has warmed for many winters the hearts of all those who let themselves be conquered by this show.
The peculiarity that distinguishes the carnival of Acireale above the others is the presence of flowered floats, unique on the whole Italian territory, entirely made up of flower petals, which hide inside mechanisms and lights.
These precious creations come along with the famous grotesque papier-mache floats, absolute protagonists of the carnival show, and together they parade along the streets of the city, which is enlightened with a series of shows and music.
Another aspect that contributes to the success of this event is certainly the presence of an open circuit which allows everyone to participate without worrying about the presence of any boundary.
Just to live again all this magic, the carnival show is not limited to being a reality in winter: thus, this summer our artisans are showing once again their workmanship, delighting visitors with their masterpieces, returning on the streets of the city of Acireale till the 28th of August.

More details on http://www.etnacoast.com/