Ulysses Caves Guided Boat Tour

Lachea Island, Aci Trezza

Lachea Island is the largest of the rock formations that make up the Ciclopi archipelago, located just off the coast of Aci Trezza, Sicily. Part of the integral nature reserve Isola Lachea e Faraglioni dei Ciclopi, this protected area was established by the Sicilian Region in 1998. The island has a subvolcanic origin, formed by the intrusion of magma into the pre-existing rocks of the seabed. In 1869, a diorite axe dating back to prehistoric times was discovered on the island, while two rock-cut tombs were found in 1919. Late Roman artefacts found on the island include pots, amphorae, loom weights, bone needles, bone comb fragments and a small oil lamp. The island's nature museum houses a rich collection of local fauna and flora.

The Faraglioni

According to legend, the Faraglioni of the Cyclops archipelago are the rocks thrown into the sea by the Cyclops Polyphemus, who was blinded by Ulysses, to prevent him from escaping. This myth, narrated in the ninth book of the Odyssey, adds an aura of mystery to these rock formations. However, their true origin dates back to the first phase of Etna's volcanic evolution, about half a million years ago. Shaped by wind and rain over thousands of years, the Faraglioni are part of a marine protected area that includes the island of Lachea and four other rocks arranged in an arc.

Norman Castle, Aci Castello

The Aci Castle is located in Aci Castello, in the province of Catania. Of uncertain origin, this fortification was a centre of development for the Aci territory in the Middle Ages. During the Sicilian Vespers, it came under the control of Ruggero di Lauria, then was owned by Giovanni di Sicilia and finally by the Alagona family, suffering numerous sieges. Today, the castle houses a civic museum. It stands on a basaltic promontory formed by submarine lava flows dating back some 500,000 years. The basaltic cliff is surrounded by a prehistoric lava flow, initially wrongly attributed to the eruption of 1169. A first castle was built by the Byzantines in the 7th century (according to other sources in the 6th century) on a pre-existing Roman fortification, called Castrum Jacis, to protect the population from enemy incursions.

Ulysses Caves in Ognina

The Caves of Ulysses at Ognina offer an evocative guided tour experience, allowing visitors to explore the interior of the caves with the accompaniment of an experienced swimming guide.

Ancient seaside village of Aci Trezza

A guided tour of the seaside village of Aci Trezza offers the opportunity to discover the history and culture of this charming Sicilian village, known for its picturesque landscape and fishing traditions. A Sicilian food and wine tasting will be included to savour local delicacies, offering a unique gastronomic experience that brings out the authentic flavours of the region.