Sicily
Sicily has a long history of foreign domination and each culture has contributed to the art, architecture, music, cuisine and traditions comprising the many layered fabric that is present day Sicily. The Arab, Spanish and Norman influences are evident in the architecture, agriculture and food. The historic Greek town of Siracusa, in its most influential period, rivaled Athens. The dramatically situated Greek temples near Agrigento are remnants of the thriving Greek culture that once occupied the island. The capital of this region, Palermo, demonstrates the architectural contributions of the many cultures inhabiting this city, and the tastes and smells wafting from the markets and restaurants suggest influences from Africa.