B
eing someone who travels a lot, I never like to play favorites with
my destinations, especially with all the fantastic resorts in Sicily
- because it’s virtually impossible to choose. Luckily, the island
is compact enough that you usually don’t have to. But I have
to admit I do have somewhat of a soft spot for Cefalù, on the
beautiful west coast.
Maybe it’s the lingering memories of Cinema Paradiso (one of my favorite
films of all time, shot on location here), or perhaps it’s the echoes of the
Arab-Norman influences writ large through its magnificent architecture.
Then again, it could simply be the rather more modern notion of staying
in one of the best resorts in Sicily and lying in the sun on the fabulous
beaches. I suspect it’s all the above, and more.
Explore the History…
As in so many Italian towns, the history is evident wherever you look – so
the best way to experience it is to simply wander the quaint streets and
piazzas and take it all in.
The Duomo di Cefalù, situated in the town’s well-preserved medieval
district, is a magnificent feat of Arab-Norman architecture. With its
exquisite Byzantine mosaics and soaring Roman columns it’s considered one of
the most important cultural landmarks in Sicily.
The Museo Mandralisca includes a small but important collection of art and relics
from as far back as the 4th century, including a portrait by Antonello da Messina.
Lavatoio is a 16th century Saracen wash house built over an ancient natural spring
and reached by a set of elegant stone steps.
While it takes a little effort, it’s well worth the climb to the summit of La Rocca – the
imposing rocky crag that looms over the town. It’s around a 45-minute climb up
the Salita Saraceni staircase, which starts at Piazza Garibaldi, but the effort is well
rewarded. You’ll pass the ruins of the megalithic Tempio di Diana (modernized by