Sicily is rather more than an Italian region: it's famous for its unique character - and for being a law unto itself. The football that is being kicked by Italy's boot, Sicily lies to the south of the country and just a short distance from the African coast. A long history of invasion and conquest has resulted in a lavish mixed heritage: Greek, Arab, Roman, Norman. This wide range of influences can be detected in the island's architecture, landscape and culture, and has blended to make Sicily a thoroughly unique destination.

The Balearic Islands are a Spanish province in the Mediterranean and includes the islands of Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, Cabrera and Formentera.

The role of the Illes Balears as a crossroads in a sea full of historical events has left traces that any lover of the past will never tire of discovering. Their pasts have been forged by the various civilisations that have influenced the historical evolution of each island from prehistorical times up to the present day.