Catania and Capo Mulini

Sicily's second largest city, Catania (ancient Greek settlement of Katane'), is located on the east side of the island, just below the toe of the boot. The city was founded founded by the Calcidesi people in 729 B.C., and subsequently conquered by invaders (Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Spaniards, Italians, and the Allied Forces) and destroyed by natural catastrophes many times over the following centuries. Mt. Etna dominates this side of the island as Europe's largest volcano at a height of almost 11,000 feet. Etna remains one of the world's most active volcanoes, and the rich volcanic soil enables farmers to produce terrific wines and fruits. A massive eruption in 693 BC destroyed ancient Catania, and the most recent major eruption occurred only a few years ago in 2002. The city has been buried by lava 7 times in recorded history. Earthquakes have also taken a toll on the region, such that the Baroque-style city seen today was mostly constructed after a massive earthquake in 1693, utilizing the local black lava stone.

A few of the more important monuments include the Piazza Duomo with a 1736 Elephant Fountain (below), the St. Agata Duomo (above), and a 12th century Norman castle, Aci Castello, perched atop a black promontory, jutting out over the sea. (Catania's elephant connection includes the presence of dwarf elephants from the Upper Paleolithic, as well as some mythology.)

We live in Capo Mulini, a small fishing village north of Catania. Coaches Mel and Luis already seem to be well known and liked by the local establishments. The rocky coastline pictured above is just across the street and down a shady footpath from our spacious apartment.

OK, I know I promised "stupidly amusing" but I thought I would just get this out of the way for any friend who might be interested in some history and geography, or who might later be called upon for a search and rescue operation. Yes, I know that's a short list of people...