Guide to the ISLAND OF SALINA IN THE AEOLIANS 

The Island of Salina, with an area of 26.8 square kilometers, it is the second island for surface and population after Lipari. It was formed by six ancient volcanoes, including the highest mountains in the archipelago: the "Fosfa delle Felci", 961 meters, and the "Monte dei Porri", 860 meters. Its ancient Greek name "Didyme" (= twins) derives from these two extinct volcanoes. Instead, the present name comes from a small lake from which salt was extracted. Around the 7th century A.D., when the volcanoes on Lipari were still active, Salina was one the most populated islands. It was later abandoned at the time of the Arab invasions, and was inhabited again only starting from the 17th century. It is the most fertile and water-rich among the Aeolian Islands, and capers and fine grapes are grown from which the "Malvasia delle Lipari," a sweet wine, is derived.

WHAT TO DO ON THE ISLAND OF SALINA

1. THE VILLAGE OF SANTA MARINA

It is the main town on the island and is located on the slopes of Monte Fossa delle Felci. The imposing eighteenth-century church overlooks the entire centre. This is also the liveliest town on the island: there are shops, bars and numerous cafes. Furthermore, entering the Civic Museum will be like making an authentic journey through the history of the island.

2. BEACH OF POLLARA

One of Aeolian Islands most beautiful beaches. The dark rocks and pebbles of the coast are in contrast with the white cliff overlooking the sea. It can be reached by sea or by walking along a fairly demanding path. It’s worth it, also because some scenes of Massimo Troisi’s The postman were shot here.

3. THE VILLAGE OF MALFA

A pretty village located on the north coast of the island. Its white houses are distributed along the slope that reaches the sea. A small beach embellishes the village. And the eighteenth-century church of Sant’Anna preserves numerous paintings and sculptures.

4. RISERVA NATURALE LE MONTAGNE DELLE FELCI E DEI PORRI

This nature reserve it is recommended for every hiker: there are numerous paths that reach the top of Monte Fossa delle Felci.

5. VILLAGGIO PREISTORICO DI PORTELLA

Dating back to Bronze age, this prehistoric village is composed of more than twenty oval huts carved into the rock. Several objects have been found here, from stone tools to pottery.

6. VISIT THE BEACHES OF SALINA

Pollara, although certainly beautiful, is not the only one of Salina beaches: other places that would deserve a visit are Scario, Santa Marina and Rinella.

HOW TO GET TO THE ISLAND OF SALINA

To get to the Aeolian Islands, therefore to Salina, all you have to do is board one of the ferries departing from Naples, Reggio Calabria, Messina and Milazzo.