Sicily continues to amaze and fascinate our friends Shaoran and Akame, the adventurous Chinese couple always ready for new experiences. After exploring Etna, Ortigia, Marzamemi, Noto, Modica, and other enchanting places, today they are about to discover a destination with a historical flavor.
An Unexpected Conversation
During a quiet drive to the center of Taormina, while chatting with our driver, Shaoran and Akame learn something surprising.
“You won't believe it,” says our driver with a smile. “Did you know that the first capital of Italy was proclaimed right here in Sicily?”
Shaoran and Akame look at each other in astonishment.
“Really? We didn’t know that!” exclaims Akame.
“It’s true! It happened in 1860 in Salemi. It was the first capital of Italy after the arrival of Garibaldi and the Thousand.”
Shaoran seems incredulous. “We definitely need to visit it. Can you take us there?”
“Of course! We can follow the same route as the Thousand Garibaldians and, after Salemi, stop at Calatafimi, where the first decisive battle took place.”
Journey to Salemi: Following Garibaldi’s Footsteps
The trip from Taormina to Salemi is long but pleasant, thanks to our Chauffeur-Driven Car Rental that guarantees comfort and zero stress. As we drive along the highway, we share some historical details.
“Garibaldi and his Thousand landed in Marsala on May 11, 1860. Their goal was to free Sicily from the Bourbons and unify Italy.”
“I imagine it wasn’t easy,” reflects Akame.
“No, indeed. They were few against a well-armed army. But Garibaldi, with his strategy and the support of the local population, managed to achieve important victories.”
Salemi: The First Capital of Italy
After a couple of hours on the road, we arrive in Salemi, nestled among hills of olive groves and vineyards. The town appears peaceful, with its historic center of light stone gleaming in the sun.
“It’s so different from the other places we’ve visited,” comments Shaoran.
“Salemi is a small gem rich in history,” we explain. “When Garibaldi arrived here on May 14, 1860, he proclaimed Salemi the first capital of Italy, hoisting the tricolor on the town hall.”
Norman-Swabian Castle: The Symbol of Salemi
Our first stop is the Norman-Swabian Castle, built between the 12th and 13th centuries. Perched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below.
“It’s incredible! It feels like stepping back in time,” says Akame, taking photos of the massive square tower.
“This castle has witnessed centuries of history. During the Norman period, it was a strategic stronghold, and it was right here that Garibaldi proclaimed the capital.”
Inside the castle, we explore the courtyard and interior halls, where temporary exhibitions recount the exploits of the Thousand. Shaoran and Akame listen intently to our driver’s story.
Piazza Alicia: The Historic Heart of Salemi
We walk down to the historic center and reach Piazza Alicia, the bustling heart of the town. At its center lie the remains of the Mother Church, destroyed by the 1968 earthquake, but still imposing with its surviving columns.
“This square has witnessed history unfold,” says Shaoran.
“Exactly. It’s a symbolic place of the town and its rebirth after the earthquake.”
We stop at a café for a coffee and a granita. The bartender tells us that every year in Salemi, they celebrate the “Bread Festival” in honor of Saint Joseph, with decorated bread symbolizing abundance and fertility.
Calatafimi: The First Battle of the Thousand
Leaving Salemi, we head to Calatafimi, following the same path taken by Garibaldi. The hilly landscape is dotted with vineyards and olive trees.
Once in Calatafimi, we stop at the Pianto Romano Memorial, where the Battle of Calatafimi took place on May 15, 1860.
“It was a decisive clash,” we explain. “The Bourbon troops were numerically superior, but Garibaldi, with his charisma and the determination of his volunteers, managed to turn the tide.”
Shaoran and Akame observe the monument commemorating the fallen.
“It must have been an incredible historical moment,” says Akame.
Lunch with History: Sicilian Flavors
After visiting the memorial, we stop at a typical trattoria. We suggest some dishes:
- Busiate with Trapanese pesto
- Grilled sausage
- Pane cunzato with tomato, anchovies, and cheese
“Eating in this historic context has a different flavor,” says Shaoran.
The restaurant owner shares a story: “During the battle, some farmers offered bread to the Garibaldians, moved by their determination.”
Strolling through Calatafimi’s Historic Center
After lunch, we wander through the alleys of Calatafimi, reaching the Mother Church, whose baroque façade dominates the square.
“This town also has a unique charm,” says Akame.
“Yes, here baroque blends with Risorgimento history. It’s like an open-air museum.”
Return to Taormina: Memories of History
As the sun begins to set, we start our journey back. Shaoran and Akame relax in the car, still immersed in the day’s stories.
“It was exciting to retrace Garibaldi’s steps,” reflects Shaoran.
“And to think that Salemi was the first capital of Italy! We would have never guessed,” adds Akame.
The Advantage of Chauffeur-Driven Car Rental
Thanks to our Chauffeur-Driven Car Service, the trip was comfortable and stress-free. Shaoran and Akame could immerse themselves in history without worrying about a thing:
🚗 Hassle-free transportation
🗺️ Discovery of historical places off the beaten path
📖 Stories and curiosities onboard
🌅 A tailor-made experience
Return: History and Emotion
Arriving back in Taormina, we part ways with a smile.
“Every day in Sicily teaches us something new,” says Akame.
“Thank you for accompanying us. It felt like experiencing a history lesson firsthand,” concludes Shaoran.
And as we drive away, we know that Salemi and Calatafimi have also left their mark on the hearts of our traveling friends.
