Greeks, Romans, Normans and Saracens. Orange, mandarin, lemon and olive trees.  Magma and mosaics, gorges and Greek temples. Pasta with grilled aubergines and cannoli with candied fruits. The largest of the Mediterranean islands is home to the biggest botanical gardens in Italy and the largest volcano in Europe.

Experience the raw treasures of Palermo, where crumbling castles stand next to new apartments. Step inside a 12^th century church or a Royal Palace, and stroll through 18^th century botanical gardens. Visit Temple Valley and marvel at the columns and capitals of the nine Greek temples. Investigate the economy and seismic history of Catania as you take in the city’s baroque architecture, or practice your Italian in Sicily’s most exotic food markets. Explore the Greco-Roman resort of Taormina and watch the smoke rising from Mount Etna; visit the active volcano itself and trek with a guide to the crater. Descend into the Alcantara Gorges and see the magma rock formations, caused by one of Etna’s eruptions.

Just two and a half hours by aeroplane from the UK, this warm island of archaeological and natural wonders is an attractive destination for school groups. STS provide excellent accommodation on the island, with easy access to Sicily’s most important sites, affording students a rich experience of Sicilian culture, and powerful insight into the history of the Mediterranean basin.