The area around Palermo is a land of outstanding, multi-faceted beauty: crystal-clear water and rocks overhanging the sea, wooden hills, steep mountains, green plains with citrus trees, olive trees, fig trees, and vineyards. In Palermo history has left extraordinary marks on churches and buildings, and in streets and squares since the Phoenician times. Not too far, Monreale can boast the magnificent jewel of the cathedral, while Mondello is considered the ‘home beach’ by all Palermo inhabitants. Sferracavallo and Capaci lies in front of the island Isola delle Femmine; the volcanic island of Ustica is 36 nautical miles off the coast. East of the provincial and regional capital city of Palermo are the archaeological site of Solunto, the baroque-style town of Bagheria, Termini lmerese, and Cefalù – the latter featuring an imposing Norman cathedral. The inland areas hold unique, precious sites: suffice it to think of the Parco delle Madonie, with the charming villages of Petralia Sottana and Petralia Soprana, Castelbuono, Collesano, and Polizzi, all characterised by historical buildings as well as ancient humble dwellings.