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With an exciting and hectic past, famous for its seductive beaches, but also because it is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, Corsica has a strong Italian atmosphere, although it belongs to France. One of the most charming cities on the “Island of Beauty” is Ajaccio. In 1769, Napoleon was born here, so today tourists can visit Bonaparte Square, as well as the Notre Dame de la Misericorde, where Napoleon was baptized. Ajaccio has lots more to offer: forested mountains, the sea port and the citadel – all of them located in a mild climate all year round. In the old center of Ajaccio, the typical Mediterranean atmosphere is charming: narrow streets, sprinkled with picturesque houses. Sardinia, the island of natural beauty, attracts millions of visitors each year, thanks to its ancient traditions and almost unreal colors. Located at the heart of the Mediterranean, Sardinia has everything a tourist could want: from glamorous Costa Smeralda, to the rural beauty, preserved intact. Emerald waters, so rare in the Mediterranean, pinkish sand on the beaches and cultural richness make Sardinia a hugely popular destination. “Nuraghi”, the cone-shaped stone towers, are scattered throughout the island and stand as just one proof to the island’s unique character. Built approximately 3,500 years ago by a mysterious prehistoric population, their precise original purpose has not been yet revealed. Alghero and Cagliari are two of the cities where it is mandatory to stop in Sardinia. Alghero is a city with a strong personality, famous for its stunning beaches and excellent food. Cagliari is the largest city in Sardinia and one of the oldest in antiquity, then known as Karalis. The Bastione San Remy, a renovated medieval cathedral is one of the most popular sights in Cagliari and the Basilica di San Saturnino is also well loved and appreciated, especially by Christians. It is said that you have to see Sicily in order to really feel Italy. When you travel to Sicily it’s best to be prepared for one of the wonders of this island: here people communicate honestly and genuinely; they are open to the world. Sicilians are really interested in where you live, and are always willing to give you tips about things to visit. What makes them so? Perhaps the fact that all of the world has come to their island. Proof: a Moorish window from the eleventh century, a Gothic arch from the thirteen century and a Norman one from the twelfth century. That’s what the typical building in Palermo, capital of Sicily, looks like. The area was ruled by all the ancient powers on the continent: Greeks, Romans, Carthaginians, Byzantines, Saracens, Normans, Spaniards and Bourbons. Palermo is a city that vibrates. The streets of Palermo are true mazes with hidden corners. The atmosphere is that of an Arab souk. But the Baroque churches and numerous palazzi remind you that you are still in Italy. Though not a common symbol in Sicilian culture, the elephant carved in Roman volcanic rock, which supports an Egyptian obelisk, is the symbol of Catania. It is the mark left by Carthaginians invaders and Phoenicians colonists. Other sights you will definitely want to see in Catania include the Roman amphitheater of lava and marble, the churches, the palaces and the baroque Dome. Author Bio: Route4Us travel blog helps you to find out and select the best golden triangle tour to spend your vacations.
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Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, Travel,
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