THE ISLAND

The island of Salina covers an area of 26.8 square kilometres, and is second only to Lipari in size. It is home to the two highest mountains of the Aeolian Islands, Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte Porri, volcanoes that have long since died out, hence its ancient name Didyme, which means twins. Many archaeological sites on the island have unearthed remains from the Neolithic period of the Aeolian Age. Bronze Age settlements include Portella, Barone and Mastrognoli, located along one of the ancient paths that leads into the slopes of Monte Fossa delle Felci and is one of the most beautiful nature trails on the island of Salina. Many paths lead to the peaks of Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte Porri, from which you can admire all the islands amidst lush vegetation that contains 30% of Mediterranean tree species. In the trekking section you will find the main paths to explore.

For lovers of Aeolian art and culture, we recommend a visit to the Museo Civico di Lingua, dedicated to the history, customs, life and traditions of the island of Salina, and the Museo Eoliano dell'Emigrazione di Malfa, which houses publications, photographs, old cardboard suitcases and exhibits on emigration and the Aeolian communities in the Americas and Australia. Another point of reference, for those who wish to get in touch with the country's identity, the Aeolian and Sicilian culture and the historical memory of the island communities abroad, is the Malfa Library-Picture Gallery which houses an important book and audiovisual heritage. Salina is the most fertile island of the Aeolian Islands. Here, fine grapes are harvested from which, in addition to noteworthy wines, Malvasia, a sweetish liqueur wine, is made. Of great importance is the cultivation of capers, which are appreciated and exported all over the world. In Pollara, the church and the small square of Sant'Onofrio are the meeting and entertainment points. Here, on the first Sunday in June, the Sagra del Cappero (Caper Festival) takes place, an unmissable food and wine event in which all the women of the village are engaged in the preparation of dishes based strictly on capers, offered on tables laid for the occasion along the street and in the square. Live music, local wine, dancing and sweets round off the evening.