The Aeolian Islands, Sicily and Malta, pearls of the Mediterranean

Some call it the ‘silent city'. Mdina, a fortified town, takes its name from Arabic. Its shady alley ways still evoke the time of the knights. A visit to Palazzo Falson, splendid and ancient medieval palace, the home of artist and philanthropist Olof Gollcher, offers an unexpected insight into local history and culture. His collections of paintings, carpets and weapons take you on an astonishing journey…

The best view of Europe's smallest capital is from the sea. (Re)discover Valletta from Sliema in the dusky light, when the sun begins to embrace the limestone rock of the town's oldest buildings, This unusual town was founded by the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem between the XVIth and XVIIth centuries.

More than the place itself, the name of Syracuse is all that is needed to transport travelers to another time. In its heyday, the city founded by the Corinthians was even richer than Athens. Today, the Greek remains rise above fields of citrus fruits and the columns of ancient temples still stand against the baroque style of the cathedral. To meander around Syracuse is to turn back in time and visit the past civilizations…

Overlooking the city, the remarkable Teatro Greco built in the 3rd century BC. has successfully withstood the test of time. Its tiered seating, partially carved into the rock itself, can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators, which is nearly the entire local population. During the summer, the locals “climb up” to the amphitheater to enjoy rock concerts, opera singing, and movie screenings. A unique location with a view of the sea and Mt. Etna...

The island of Salina is the greenest of the Aeolian Islands and it used to be known as the garden of the archipelago famous for its wild capers and liquor-like wine, Malvasia. The sweet, amber coloured wine, made from malvasia grapes and red grapes from Corinth, is appreciated particularly as an aperitif, with cheese or desert. It can be tasted in the cellars of the vineyards of Malfa.