The wonderful Aeolian Islands: did you know that they are a UNESCO World Heritage site?

It is something that not everyone knows. Despite the “nomination” (as we will see later) dates back to several years ago. However, you have to know that yes, the Aeolian Islands are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And, moreover, in order to dispel any possible doubt, it would be enough to take a look at the picture above.

Since 2000

The Aeolian Islands became UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this year. The motivation? Here it is:

“The islands’ volcanic landforms represent classic features in the continuing study of volcanology world-wide. With their scientific study from at least the 18th Century, the islands have provided two of the types of eruptions (Vulcanian and Strombolian) to volcanology and geology textbooks and so have featured prominently in the education of all geoscientists for over 200 years. They continue to provide a rich field for volcanological studies of on-going geological processes in the development of landforms”.

Not only science…

As you have read, the main motivation is the inestimable scientific value of the archipelago. But we also want to add another reason, perhaps more prosaic but certainly not less valid: the intrinsic and spectacular beauty of the so-called “seven sisters”.

• A beauty represented by its many beaches, such as the spiaggia Bianca on Lipari, the beach of Pollara on Salina or the beach of le Fumarole on Vulcano, just to mention some of the best known.
• A beauty explained in different ways on each of the seven main islands (Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Alicudi, Filicudi), different from each other and indicated to spend a different kind of holiday.

…and not only Aeolian Islands

In fact, the whole Sicily is a sort of chest filled with priceless historical-cultural treasures that are Unesco World Heritage Site. And we can give you some other good ideas for your next vacation:

• The Arab-Norman itinerary of Palermo;
• Agrigento archaeological area;
• Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe.

Image source: Flickr.com/photos/danielenchev