> Italy
In western Sicily the strong influence of the Norman culture is evident in marvelous cathedrals, for example Cefalu, and the stunning Cappella Palatina Chapel in Palermo. Featuring stunning narrative mosaics, carved wood ceilings, and details by craftsmen from throughout the Norman world, it is a breathtaking architectural gem. Greek influence is significant at Segesta, Selinunte and Argrigento. The hilltop town of Erice sits 2500 feet above the sea essentially on a rock. Founded by the Phoenicians, it has fabulous stone work and thoughfully preserved religious architecture. To the far west, the salt pans in the Stagnone Reserve are beautiful and with the traditional windmills hark back to the time when salt was first harvested here.