Looking at the sea of Aci Trezza, you can see huge black boulders emerging from the water: the Faraglioni (Stacks). According to Homer, these are not just simple rocks, but the stones thrown by the blinded Cyclops Polyphemus against Ulysses' ship as he fled.
The Myth of Polyphemus
Polyphemus, son of Poseidon, was a one-eyed giant who lived in the caves of Etna, grazing his sheep. Etna itself, with its single central crater (the eye) spewing fire, might have inspired the figure of the Cyclops.
The escape of Ulysses, who blinds the monster with a burning stake, is one of the most famous stories of the Odyssey. The cyclops' rage represents the blind fury of volcanic eruptions.
Aci Trezza and Aci Castello
Today these places are enchanting fishing villages. Aci Trezza, with its stacks and Lachea Island (nature reserve), is perfect for a summer swim. Aci Castello is dominated by a Norman castle incredibly built on a lava cliff overlooking the sea, a testimony to very ancient submarine eruptions.
Between Myth and Geology
Scientifically, the Stacks are 'laccoliths', masses of intruded magma lifted from the seabed. But looking at them at sunset, it is difficult not to imagine the furious giant throwing them into the sea.
The Cyclops Shipyard
In Aci Trezza there is an ancient shipyard (the 'squero') where shipwrights still build colorful wooden boats. Watching them work is like taking a step back in time, when Ulysses sailed these waters.
Why Choose It
- Aci Trezza Stacks
- Norman Castle of Aci Castello
- Myth of Ulysses and Polyphemus
- Cyclops Islands Marine Reserve
- Granita and fresh fish
Practical Info
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Myth | Odyssey (Homer) |
| Protagonist | Polyphemus (Cyclops) |
| Real Location | Aci Trezza (CT) |
| Geology | Submarine volcanic manifestations |
| Activities | Snorkeling / Kayak |
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