Sicilian TREASURE

A captivating trail of art, culture and cuisine in Sicily's capital, Palermo

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Not many cities in Italy can proudly boast that they were once the capital of an empire. Palermo is one of only two to hold that title, and its rich history has handed down spectacular palaces, arabesque mosques and art-nouveau villas. A perfect city for lovers of culture and great food, it's also blessed with sun-drenched beaches, making it a dream destination.

Marvellous sights

Palermo's status as the centre of several kingdoms – from the Arab-Norman culture that earned it a UNESCO title to the later Spanish Kingdom of Aragon – is evident in its many wonders. Just a short walk along Via Maqueda reveals that the historic centre is a patchwork of eras and styles. Take in the grandeur of Massimo Theatre (Italy's biggest opera house), then head to Quattro Canti square, which divides the city centre into four districts. Each is reflected in a bombastic facade, where saints, rulers and allegories of the four seasons coexist. Nearby, the Piazza Pretoria, with its 16th-century white marble fountain, is a delight. It's nicknamed the 'fountain of shame' because the naked statues that surround it face a nunnery, though some say it's because it was an unnecessary vanity project at a time of famine.