8 Fun Reasons to Study Abroad in Sicily
Beaches, historical sites, delicious food, and more await those who travel to Sicily. Even though Sicily is a part of Italy, locals consider themselves Sicilians rather than Italians—and the rich love of this island off the coast of Italy is contagious. The gorgeous weather, the taste of a decadent cannoli, and the ability to explore the ruins of the ancient Greek and Roman times will make you never want to leave.
Move aside, Tuscany. Sicily has entered the chat.
Sicily is the optimal place to study abroad because this island feels less like a touristy place than the cities in mainland Italy, like Rome, Florence, or Milan. Therefore, students will be able to create a more authentic and meaningful travel experience while living in Sicily.
As if you don’t need any more reasons to study abroad in Sicily, we’ve gone ahead and listed out exactly why study abroad in Sicily is right for you. Pack your bags and plan to go as soon as you can!
8 reasons to study abroad in Sicily
1. Language learning
While Sicily may be a part of Italy, it should be thought of as its own place apart from Italy. One main cultural difference between Sicily and the mainland of Italy is the differences in languages. While Italians usually speak Italian, Sicilians have their very own language.
The Sicilian language is multicultural for its mix of Greek, Arabic, French, Spanish, and Catalan in its structure. Sicily is the best place to learn both Sicilian and Italian because most citizens speak Italian in addition to Sicilian. By completely immersing yourself in the languages you will be fluent in no time!
2. Food, food, and more food
Better pack your loose pair of jeans.
Having the chance to study and live in any part of Italy is a dream come true for many people. The benefits of living in such a beautiful country are endless. Perhaps one of the best benefits of living in Italy is the food—and Sicily is no different!
One of Italy’s most famous food exports is the sweet cannoli. Aside from the desserts, Sicily also offers delicious seafood and, of course, pasta. Sicily’s multicultural present and future are reflected in its vast array of cuisine.
The influence of past conquerers can be seen in many Sicilian delicacies, which is why there is a mix of African, Arab, Greek, Roman, Spanish, and more. This is what makes Sicily’s food so unlike the rest of Italy. The chance to taste, cook, and be around this food is another reason why studying abroad in Sicily is a great idea.
READ MORE: What to Pack for Study Abroad in Italy
3. Drink up!
Not only is Italy known for its food, but Italians are considered experts when it comes to producing wines. As for Sicily, the island is one of Italy’s largest wine-producing regions. At wineries, students can learn the art of making and tasting wines. Popular wines made in Sicily include Malvasia, Novello, Marsala, Moscato, Zibibbo, and more. Not only are the wines amazing, but the views of the island are stunning at local wineries.
Coffee and college go together like nothing else. Italy is known for its rich and robust coffee. When in Sicily, students can enjoy a classic cup of espresso on their way to morning classes or during a late-night study session.
4. Natural landscapes
Your eyes don’t deceive you—studying abroad in Sicily will be jaw-dropping!
The natural landscapes of Sicily are so incredible that you won’t want to live anywhere else after you’ve experienced it firsthand. Beaches are pristine and unique because of the crystal clear water, caves, and rock formations that align the coasts.
Besides the beach, the mountains are breathtaking to look at. And among the stunning mountains, there are also active volcanos! The largest and most active volcano in Europe is Mount Etna located in Sicily.
On your days off or after classes, go for fun beach days and adventurous hikes to see sites you can’t see anywhere else in the world.
5. History (and historical sites)
In the middle of a cultural hot spot between Africa and Europe, Sicily has become a type of melting pot. Evidence of ancient Mediterranean, Greek, and Roman history are scattered throughout the island.
See historical ruins, Greek theaters, and ancient temples firsthand. The island even has castles and medieval towns just waiting to be explored and admired. The rich and unique history of this place is reason enough to go and study abroad in Sicily!
Interested in more modern history? Sicily is considered the birthplace of the Sicilian Mafia. In Sicily, you can learn about the effects and reputation Sicilians have had to deal with because of the mafia. Just remember to be respectful to locals if discussing the mafia—many Sicilians lost their lives due to the organized crime syndicate.
READ MORE: Study Abroad in Italy in These 6 Lesser-Known Cities
6. Wide variety of art
The architecture and historical art available to you in Sicily will leave you floored.
Italy is known for its beautiful art collections and Sicily is no exception. The art museums contain priceless art that dates back thousands of years. Famous artists from Sicily that have left their exceptional artwork behind include Antonello de Messina, Caravaggio, Renato Guttuso, and more. Famous sculptures that have been preserved and are available for viewing include The Charioteer and The Dancing Satyr.
In addition to this, the modern and contemporary art scene in Sicily should not be missed. Students studying abroad will learn an incredible amount about art history and art techniques.
7. Location, location, location
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and has close access to many countries surrounding it. While studying abroad, easily travel to take a break or go on a weekend trip to the mainland part of Italy.
Looking to try out a new continent? Africa is not too far away to go and explore! The inexpensive costs of traveling in Europe is another reason why studying abroad in Sicily, and Europe in general, is a great idea.
Especially since Sicily and Italy are part of the European Union, traveling to surrounding countries like Spain, Greece, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Croatia is exceptionally simple.
8. Less touristy
Fancy a peek into your future?
Italy can sometimes feel like it is overrun by tourists, but not in Sicily! This island is still a part of Italy, but it doesn’t have nearly as many tourists as the main cities of Florence, Rome, and Milan do.
In turn, this gives students a more authentic experience free from noisy crowds and congested cities. Studying abroad in Sicily will give students the chance to fully immerse themselves in Sicilian and Italian culture.
Take the next step! Get matched with 5 study abroad programs in Sicily for FREE
Why NOT study abroad in Sicily next year?
After all these reasons to study abroad in Sicily, why wouldn’t you go? The island is gorgeous, the culture is rich, and there is no other place like it in the world. Begin planning your study abroad adventure today and start looking for study abroad programs in Sicily or Italy. Your adventure awaits!
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