Sicily's Aeolian Islands, until fairly recently, were one of Italy best-kept secrets. Settled since ancient times, the seven islands share a history with Sicily, and until the mid-twentieth century were the refuge of farmers and fishermen. They were also of interest to vulcanologists, who studied the behavior of the ever-active Stromboli, and the dormant volcanoes of the neighboring islands.
Then the tourists discovered them.
Today the Aeolian Islands are inundated by visitors each summer, and the abandoned houses of my family and their neighbors, who left in the 1920s for a new life in the USA, South America, Australia and New Zealand, have been replaced by smart-looking homes, pensiones and nightclubs.
The seven islands are Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Filicudi, Alicudi, Panarea and Stromboli. Here are some videos that show a little of their natural beauty:
If your ancestors came from the Aeolian Islands, you can search for their names on our Aeolian Family Names page.
Have A Story About The Aeolian Islands?
Do you have a great story about the Aeolian Islands? Perhaps you've lived there, or had a memorable visit, or your ancestors were born there. In any case, we'd love to hear from you. To submit a story or information to our site, please visit the Invitation Page.
