Palermo is the capital city of Sicily and dates back to the 8th Century BC. One of the most interesting activities in this city is the legendary ‘antico mito delle vampe’ (ancient myth of the flames) which occurs around the same time as the feast of Saint Joseph. The locals gather any woods and furniture and burn theses in a massive bonfire whilst all the youngsters sing and run around it and sing songs in praise of Saint Joseph. This is thought to rid the city of bad influences and wishes the city a positive spring.

In this city you will also find ancient buildings which are definatley worth a visit’ the Norman-Arab-Baroque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta together with the Palazzo dei Normanni which is only a few seconds walk away. This palace boasts a stunning mosaic-decorated chapel (Cappella Palatina). The Palatina chapel is distinguished for its artifacts in gold and mosaic which form part of this chapel.