Sicilian traditions are as fascinating as its land: coloured carts, proud puppets, the ancient "mattanza" and much more.

SICILIAN CARTS
Those ornate, colourful two-wheel carts are usually drawn by horses or donkeys, used for hauling miscellaneous light loads, and also for festive occasions such as weddings and parades.
Carts are covered in carvings and brightly painted scenes from Sicilian history and folklore, as well as intricate geometrical designs. These scenes also served the purpose of conveying historical information to those who were illiterate. Miniature carts are often sold as souvenirs, and often you can see traditional parades along the towns' main streets.

PUPPETS THEATRE
The puppets theatre is one the most famous and popular forms of art of the Sicilian tradition. Plays often represent the battles between Saracens & Christians in the Middle Ages, and convey ideals that are dear to Sicilian people: chivalry, honour, justice, faith, love. Many shops around Taormina sell beautiful puppets, rigurously handmade according to the tradition, and small theatres still perform puppets's shows.

THE ANCIENT "MATTANZA"
This annual ritual serves to catch the enormous Bluefin Tunas, and it's as old as history. The migrating tuna are herded into nets and then gaffed and slaughtered in a bloody frenzy along the Sicilian coasts. For all its picturesque brutality, it is, in fact, an environmentally sustainable way to catch fish. The tuna season starts in May and ends in June. 

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