The Discovery of the Islamic Soul and Heritage of Islamic Sicily

Half-board (Dinner)

A discovery tour of Palermo, known as "Bal Alharm" in Arabic, one of the major cities of Italy and the historical capital of Sicily. Palermo was conquered in 831 by the Islamic Abbasid Empire from North Africa and became the main capital of the Muslim Emirate of Sicily until 1072, almost 300 years under central Islamic control. The city continued in brave rebellion for almost 200 years against the Norman Kings and crusaders until 1250. Visit the most beautiful historical mosques including "Al Jamm'e Al Akbar", also known as the Cathedral of Palermo, where a marble pillar at the main gate is inscribed with verses from the Holy Quran (Surat Al Aaraaf verse 7:54). Visit the immense and spiritual ruins of "San Giovanni degli Eremiti", once the largest Mosque and Madrassa of Palermo, and an active mosque for prayers with the local Muslim community. Overnight in Palermo.

Full board (Lunch & Dinner)

Panoramic tour through beautiful Sicilian landscapes rich with Islamic history. Visit the wonders of Arab-Norman Palermo spread between the historical centre and the towns of Cefalu and Monreale, home to two cathedrals (originally mosques) that symbolize the rich Islamic Heritage of the Emirate of Sicily. These splendid examples of Muslim Arab Heritage were included by UNESCO in the World Heritage List in 2015. Enjoy a delicious seaside lunch in Cefalu before continuing to the world-famous village of Corleone. The etymology of the name derives from the Arabic "Kurulliun / Qurlayun", originating from a Muslim Arab fighter named "Kurliyun" who conquered it for the Aghlabids in 840. The town housed a mosque called "Masjid Al-Bariy" and served as a refuge for fleeing Muslims. In 1208, a Muslim uprising succeeded in retaking the town from Christian rule. The rock formation Castello Soprano still has a Saracen lookout tower, and the Castello Sottano is known as "Castello di Saraceni". Transfer and overnight in Enna.

Half-board (Dinner)

Morning tour to Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most active and highest volcano in Europe at 10,000 feet. The name Mongibello comes from the Latin "Mons" and the Arabic "Gebe", both meaning mountain. Continue to the beautiful coastal city of Taormina, conquered by the Muslims in 902 and named "Tabermine". Panoramic tour of the Muslim Arab-Norman "Castle of Monte Tauro" and the famous "Corjava Palace", originally built by Muslims. Journey to Catania, the second largest city of Sicily, called "Qataaniyya" by Muslims, home to one of Italy's largest harbors. Overnight and dinner in Catania.

Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to Catania International Airport for your return flight.