Borgo Parrini Inspires

Yesterday, I took a side trip to Borgo Parrini, a tiny neighborhood of the town of Partinico, which you’ll find a few miles west of Palermo. Originally developed in the 16th century by the Jesuits (Parrini means priests.), the division of homes has been occupied over the centuries by various residents, mostly supporting agricultural activities…

Ceramic Pinecones In Sicily

Pinecones are a powerful symbol that you’ll see all over Sicily and southern Italy in ceramic (like these shown) on balconies, front gates, and prominently displayed inside homes. The significance of pinecones in modern times is one of hospitality and welcoming, but not only. The pinecone as a botanical is a reproductive organ. Female pinecones…

Exploring Ragusa Ibla

Yesterday, I spent a splendid morning exploring the secret staircases and hidden alleyways of Ragusa Ibla. I was imagining what life must have been like when these viccoli where traveled more regularly by residents. After climbing dozens of stairs in out-of-the-way sections of town, I sat in the Piazza Duomo enjoying this lovely view of…